ROCKY VOTOLATO | TRUE DEVOTION
Seattle musician Rocky Votolato’s eighth studio album, True Devotion, marks the singer/songwriter’s return after 07’s The Brag and Cuss. The former member of indie band Waxwing bares his heart, singing stories about growth, love, and life without ever sounding cloy. Votolato doesn’t always stretch his vocals on the album, which is a shame. Two of the strongest tracks, “Red Rocks,” an upbeat song that recalls some of Elliott Smith’s happier songs, and “Where We Started,” a beautiful, sad ballad, greatly benefit from Votolato’s emotional vocals. That said, True Devotion is a fine release of confessional acoustic songs that have real emotional punch. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | Ryan Adams, Bright Eyes, Damien Jurado, Iron & Wine, The Pernice Brothers, Elliott Smith
posted by JFelton, March 9, 2010
PAVEMENT | QUARANTINE THE PAST: GREATEST HITS 1989 – 1999
Pavement’s first compilation released in conjunction with the group’s 2010 reunion takes its title from the track “Gold Soundz” – “you can never quarantine the past” – which is essentially the function retrospective. The 23 track collection spans Pavement’s entire discography, from the scratchy sounds of their early vinyl-only releases to the rich, multi-layered warmth of their final recordings. All in all, the compilation sums up the slacker lifestyle with jagged guitars and surreal lyrics, providing a pretty good introduction to the band. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, March 9, 2010
THE HOT RATS | TURN ONS
The Hot Rats, a.k.a. two members of the UK band Supergrass, put their own spin on classic rock songs by the likes of the Doors, David Bowie, the Kinks, and even the Beastie Boys. Turn Ons is comprised entirely of covers, and for the most part, they are fun, energetic versions that one would expect to hear played during a Supergrass concert. On most of the tracks, including David Bowie’s “Queen Bitch” and Squeeze’s “Up The Junction,” The Hot Rats don’t take a huge departure from the originals. But their take on “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (to Party!)” is a surprisingly successful psychedelic version with falsetto vocals. – Written by DBosket
posted by JFelton, March 8, 2010
THE DAREDEVIL CHRISTOPHER WRIGHT | IN DEFERENCE TO A BROKEN BACK
Eau Claire, WI-based trio The Daredevil Christopher Wright is comprised of Jon Sunde (vocals/guitar), his brother Jason Sunde (bass), and Jesse Edgington (drums). The group’s debut full length In Deference To a Broken Back, mixed by their friend Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), is an upbeat blend of off-kilter indie pop and psych folk about illness, hospitals, death, storms and personal conflicts. In spite of the downbeat undertones, In Deference To A Broken Back is an inventive collection of three-part harmonies, clever song structures, and smart and catchy riffs that pull listeners in a little further with each spin. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Cedarwell, Laarks, Meridene, One for the Team, Pomegranates, We are the Willows
posted by JFelton, March 8, 2010
CLOGS | THE CREATURES IN THE GARDEN OF LADY WALTON
The Clogs are comprised of four classically trained musicians – Bryce Dessner, Padma Newsome, Rachael Elliott and Thomas Kozumplik – who create avant-garde folk tinged chamber music that infuses sounds and textures from wide ranging musical spectrum: Americana, jazz, post-rock, and complex modern classical compositions. “The Creatures in the Garden of Lady Walton” takes its name from the Divine Garden created by composer Sir William Walton on the Island of Ischia, Italy. The Clogs’ fifth studio album, and the first non-instrumental one, is a collection of songs Newsome created during a residency at the garden’s concert series in 05. Guest vocalists include Shara Worden (My Brightest Diamond), Matt Berninger (The National), and Sufjan Stevens. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Balmorhea, Because of Ghosts, Dirty Three, Fern Knight , Esmerine, Library Tapes, Slow Six
posted by JFelton, March 8, 2010
JAGA JAZZIST | ONE–ARMED BANDIT
Norwegian nine-piece Jaga Jazzist is known as one of the leading experimental jazz groups playing today. Formed 15 years ago, this group punctuates organic melodies with drum-and-bass, woodwinds and guitar, resulting in a spacey funk-meets-Broken Social Scene sound. The tracks on One-Armed Bandit, all uniquely their own, create a cohesive album that has just as many twists and turns as it has chill-out segments with sonic grooves and gentle keyboard pings and blips. Citing influences as diverse as Charles Mingus and Missy Elliott, Jaga Jazzist creates their own brand of incredibly interesting and entertaining jazz that should appeal to both old fans and new listeners. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | Autechre, Boards of Canada, The Cinematic Orchestra, Stereolab, Squarepusher, Tortoise
posted by JFelton, March 8, 2010
MATT POND PA | DARK LEAVES
It’s been three years since Matt Pond PA’s last album, Last Light. And the Philadelphia band has gone through some changes, most notably seeing some members leave and new members join the group. The past few years of rebuilding and re-growth can be heard on The Dark Leaves. Songs like “Running Wild” and “Specks” are hopeful-sounding chamber pop songs while “Brooklyn Fawn” and “Winter Fawn” are more introspective and atmospheric. A strong album with no weak links, Pond seems to have steered the band away from the dark and into a new year. – Written by DBosket
posted by JFelton, March 3, 2010
THE SOFT PACK | THE SOFT PACK
San Diego’s The Soft Pack, formerly known as The Muslims, has their first full-length release on Kemado. These garage rockers play fast and hard without much regard for manners or hurting anyone’s feelings, and it’s great! This young quintet, inspired by California surf rock and punk, doesn’t hold back with heavy guitar riffs and blunt, cynical lyrics. And at less than 35 minutes long, this whip-smart album is sharp, straightforward, and fun. The band is currently touring in Europe and will be at SXSW this month and several other U.S. cities in the next couple of months. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | Howlies, The Natural History, Jay Reatard, Sundelles, Vivian Girls, Bear Hands, Free Energy
posted by JFelton, March 3, 2010
THE ALBUM LEAF | A CHORUS OF STORYTELLERS
The Album Leaf has returned with its fifth studio album, A Chorus of Storytellers. For the first time, Jimmy LaValle recorded the album with the entire touring band rather than recording everything himself as he’d done in the past. He also had help from Sigur Rós’ Birgir Jon Birgisson, who remixed A Chorus of Storytellers in Reykjavik. The end result is a beautiful set of songs that transport you to an icy, dramatic place in the future. LaValle’s music uses layers of sounds and instruments with swelling percussion and low-key harmonies to create an album that has a cool cinematic feel. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | Air, Explosions in the Sky, Hammock, Saxon Shore, Sigur Rós, Tristeza
posted by JFelton, March 2, 2010
OWEIHOPS | VIBURNUM
Oweihops is a band from the Pioneer Valley, MA lead by singer/songwriter Michael Metivier and features multi-instrumentalist Aric Bieganek and cellist Rebekah Dutkiewicz. Oweihops have recorded three albums: ‘05’s Chickadee, ‘07’s Cinquefoil EP and their most current album, ‘09’s Viburnum. Viburnum – which is the name of a species of ornamental shrub – is warm, organic, poignant and vibrant, capturing images of the nature and beauty found in rural western Massachusetts. Oweihops’ music is all about leisurely strolling along and taking the time to enjoy the small things in life. Look for a fourth album sometime in ‘10. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Dry Still, John Fahey, Low, Will Oldham, Old Lost John, Scud Mountain Boys, Songs: Ohia, Neil Young
posted by JFelton, March 2, 2010
POSTDATA | POSTDATA
Postdata is the side project of singer/songwriter Paul Murphy (Wintersleep) and his brother Michael. Recorded during Christmas, this gentle, mostly acoustic collection of songs was inspired by a series of dreams Paul had shortly after the death of his grandparents. Recalling Bill Callahan, Low and Nick Drake amongst others, Postdata isn’t a grief-stricken record so much as a contemplative, at times uplifting, collection of songs featuring acoustic guitar or banjo with periodic ambient noises and guest vocals. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Joseph Arthur, David Bazan, Bon Iver, Low, Timber Timbre, Wintersleep
posted by JFelton, March 1, 2010
GIL SCOTT-HERON | I’M NEW HERE
Gil Scott-Heron – the man whose mix of spoken-word and jazz is often credited as being the inspiration for what became hip hop music – returns with his first new material in 13 years. After serving a prison sentence at Riker’s on drug charges, Scott-Heron was released in ’07. On I’m New Here Scott-Heron draws upon several genres ranging from hip-hop and gospel to dubstep and blues, pairing Scott-his poetic confessions with jazz, trippy electronica beats, and even a little bit of folk. From Scott-Heron’s time worn blues soaked vocals to the redemptive, folk tinged Smog cover “I’m New Here,” Scott-Heron’s return brings a new maturity to his urban sensibilities. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, March 1, 2010
GHOSTKEEPER | GHOSTKEEPER
Shane Ghostkeeper (vocals, guitar, songwriting) and Sarah Houle (drums, vocals, songwriting) form the core of this Calgary-based four-piece with Jay Crocker (guitar) and Scott Munro (bass) rounding out the group. A soulful mix of ragged blues and angst ridden indie pop, Ghostkeeper recalls albums by bands like Pavement and Neil Young. While traditional Northern Alberta influences remain at the very core of Ghostkeeper’s songwriting, the song structure are experimental, a unique storytelling perspective and Houle’s turbulent percussion results in an inventive and off-kilter blues and psychedelia. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, March 1, 2010
GLOSSARY | FERAL FIRE
Hailing from Murfreesboro, TN, Glossary is one of the area’s best-kept secrets, returning with their sixth album Feral Fire and the first on Lucero’s “Liberty and Lament” label. Feral Fire features a mix of R&B and country tinged rock songs that explore the band’s dysfunctional relationship with time, religion, materialism, the universe and southern ideals. Feral Fire is one of Glossary’s best releases to date, so if you are in the mood for a kick-ass southern rock album filled with heavy guitars, heartbreaks and hangovers, look no further. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, March 1, 2010
BEN SOLLEE & DANIEL MARTIN MOORE | DEAR COMPANION
Dear Companion is the collaboration between Kentucky based musicians: Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore (songwriters, performers) and Jim James of My Morning Jacket (producer). The album affectionately reflects upon their ties to the Bluegrass State with the intention of drawing attention to the impact of Mountaintop Removal coal mining on the people and heritage of central Appalachia. Sollee and Moore both have different approaches to singing and songwriting – Sollee’s polished soul with inventive cello based rhythms whereas Moore’s is more a wistful folk with acoustic guitar approach. Smart, sincere and understated, the songs on Dear Companion capture a sense of isolation and loss. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
FRIGHTENED RABBIT | THE WINTER OF MIXED DRINKS
Glasgow-based Frightened Rabbit releases their third LP The Winter of Mixed Drinks – a collection of ambitious, poignant, and stunning songs that expands upon the sound from their two previously acclaimed releases. On The Winter of Mixed Drinks, the newly-expanded quintet leaves behind the “live” recording method that hallmarked their previous sound for a polished studio sound. Every track on this record is intense and hard-hitting, capturing the disintegration of someone going through a breakdown. The Winter of Mixed Drinks is sure to be one of the highlights of 2010. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
SLOW CLUB | YEAH SO
Moshi Moshi Records’ first U.S. release Yeah So by Sheffield, England band Slow Club features danceable indie folk with catchy boy-girl vocals and witty tongue-in-cheek lyrics. The band is comprised of Charles Watson on guitar and vocals with Rebecca Taylor playing some guitar, drums, an assortment of unorthodox instruments (water-filled glass bottles, spoons and the back of a wooden chair), organ and vocals. If you are into Bright Eyes, Rilo Kiley, labelmates Tilly and the Wall, or even Stars, then Slow Club’s Yeah So sunny happy-go-lucky feel and sing-song format should be right up your alley. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
PANTHA DU PRINCE | BLACK NOISE
Black Noise is the third release by veteran German producer Hendrik Weber, who records under the name Pantha du Prince. With two well-received albums under his belt (04’s Diamond Daze and 07’s This Bliss), Weber was inspired by the sounds of nature he observed and recorded during a holiday in the Swiss Alps. The result is a collection of tracks that use looping melodies, field recordings and well-placed noise and percussion to recreate the sounds of nature amid ambient techno and house music. Animal Collective’s Noah Lennox adds vocals to “Stick to My Side,” while LCD Soundsystem and !!!’s Tyler Pope features on “The Splendour.” – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | !!!, Animal Collective, Carsten Jost, Lawrence, LCD Soundsystem, Modeselektor, Sascha Funke, Trentemøller
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
TED LEO AND THE PHARMACISTS | THE BRUTALIST BRICKS
The prolific Ted Leo and The Pharmacists are releasing their sixth studio album, The Brutalist Bricks, on March 9th. Little has changed with Leo since moving to Matador after Touch & Records folded last year. This album is another impressive set of rock songs that are brimming with passion and urgency without sounding cloying or cute. As he’s done in the past, Leo’s songs are amalgams of rock, punk, pop, and this time – even a little folk. “Even Heroes Have To Die” and “Ativan Eyes” are prime examples of Leo’s classic blend of straightforward, high-intensity rock and thoughtful melodies and lyrics. It’s another sharp record from one of the most consistent bands around. – Written by DBosket
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
LAARKS | AN EXALTATION OF LAARKS
Laarks, a promising indie-rock band based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, show us what they’re made of with their debut album, An Exaltation of Laarks. Their songs use melodic hooks, expressive vocals from singer/songwriter/keyboarder Ian Jacoby, and the combination of strong drums and youthful keyboards that recall Death Cab for Cutie and Editors. The four-piece play their hearts out on the album with high energy, lots of swelling guitars, and memorable hooks. Several tracks on the album are big, ambitious anthems, but they also show that they can play charming, mid-tempo songs as well with “Where Do You Wanna Live?” and “You Know They Do.” – Written by DBosket
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
COO & HOWL | WATER CAME & COOLED US ALL
Boston based Coo & Howl is comprised of members from Joy, The Jack McCoys, The Gondoliers, The Vital Might, and Godboy, bringing an interesting diversity to their debut EP Water Came & Cooled Us All. The album features experimental song structures, mellow electric guitar, noise effects/sounds fused with a melodic, relaxed vibe that evokes a number of 60’s/70’s singer/songwriters (Cat Stevens, Nick Drake, Donovan, Tim Buckley), and elements of indie rock, blues, psychedelia and folk. Water Came & Cooled Us All features an eclectic mix that is both bluesy and folksy and different enough to keep the listener interested; Coo & Howl is definitely a band to keep an eye on. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, Califone, Guided By Voices, Pink Floyd, Andrés Segovia, Spank Rock, Tom Waits
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
GREEN MOUNTAIN GRASS | AS THE CROW FLIES
Originally from Champaign-Urbana, IL, Green Mountain Grass has been based out of Austin since 06. The quartet’s third disc, As the Crow Flies features their trademark mix of bluegrass infused with elements of jazz, funk, folk, rock, reggae and gypsy swing. A genre of bluegrass the band has dubbed “gonzograss,” their sound “includes elements of sarcasm, quotes, humor, and exaggeration.” As the Crow Flies highlights the sophisticated songwriting and stellar instrumentalism Green Mountain Grass is known for while capturing the energy of their live performances. While these guys are very talented and not afraid to experiment, my only criticism is it seems like less attention is paid to the vocals, which at times feels overwhelmed by the instrumentation, but this is something that will likely work itself out as the band matures. – Written by JFelton
posted by JFelton, February 22, 2010
BROKEN BELLS | BROKEN BELLS
Broken Bells is James Mercer (The Shins) and hip hop producer Danger Mouse (aka Brian Burton – Gnarls Barkley, Danger Doom, and Gorillaz) who met through the Danger Mouse/Sparklehorse/David Lynch collaboration Dark Night of the Soul. Currently on hiatus from their regular gigs, Broken Bells has Mercer on vocals, guitars and bass and Danger Mouse playing organ, drums, piano, synths and bass. Broken Bells is a fusion of Mercer’s brooding pop melodies and Danger Mouse’s psych-rock beats. Danger Mouse’s warped production gives Mercer’s songs the dynamic appeal found Danger Mouse produced Beck Modern Guilt and the Black Keys Attack & Release. Due out March 9th.
– Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Bear in Heaven, Danger Mouse, The Drums, Freelance Whales, Local Natives, Alec Ounsworth, The Shins, Yeasayer
posted by JFelton, February 15, 2010
THIS FRONTIER NEEDS HEROES | THIS FRONTIER NEEDS HEROES
This Frontier Needs Heroes is brother-sister Americana folk duo Brad and Jessica Lauretti.
Their self-titled debut features sparsely arranged songs, tender ballads, and rowdy toe-tappers with meandering electric guitar hooks, warbled lead vocals and tight harmonies. Their down-home aesthetic is further enhanced by whining violins, flourishes of flute and ocarina (egg-shaped terra cotta wind instrument) and handclaps. This Frontier Needs Heroes is an excellent debut of downbeat and mournful indie country/folk that flawlessly captures intimate narratives of heartache, loss and the American experience.
– Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | The Band, Fleet Foxes, Damien Jurado, The Low Anthem, Motel Motel, Old Canes, Will Oldham, Neil Young
posted by JFelton, February 15, 2010
LOCAL NATIVES | GORILLA MANOR
Gorilla Manor, the anticipated debut from Local Natives, is a strong release that should live up to most people’s expectations. This Silverlake, Los Angeles five-piece who were discovered at last year’s SXSW, play well-crafted songs that use strings, piano, swelling percussion, and big vocals from Taylor Rice. Local Natives, like several other new bands, have been compared to Fleet Foxes, and I won’t entirely disagree with that. The wide-eyed harmonies on tracks “Cards and Quarters” and “Cubism Dream” definitely have a Fleet Fox-y sound. But the expressive use of percussions on “Airplanes” and “Wide Eyes” are what really stand out on this promising debut. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | Band of Horses, The Dodos, Fleet Foxes, Ra Ra Riot, Surfer Blood, Yeasayer
posted by JFelton, February 15, 2010
RECORD LABLES
