Week 12 2010 March 23 - New Releases & Some Reviews

A little late this week, but I'm finally back with some more new music to discuss. As I always must say; so much music so little time.

The ambient/experimental project that for over a decade has been LUSINE is an enduring project that rarely fails to produce bad music. Two newer remix EPs are out: "Twilight" & "Two Dots". Each EP sporting great remixes of already great trax. Any interest in this area? You can't go wrong with a LUSINE album.

Another person in this arena I really like is Ewan Pearson whose creative talents produced the excellent "Piece Work" (2-CD from 2007) and it was fantastic. Now he's released a mix cd on my favourite electronic label KOMPAKT. This release is "We Are Proud Of Our Choices (A Kompakt Mix CD)" (2010). It's a fantastic mix cd and has turned me on to Xenia Beliayeva who bears a little resemblance to Miss Kittin. I was seriously immersed. *****

New project The Seven Fields Of Aphelion is A Member (Maureen) of Black Moth Super Rainbow & Tobacco as well as a multiple exposure photographer (Check out the myspace page) has released debut album "Periphery" (2010). The music here is experimental ambient, thus being nothing like the other 2 bands. Obviously it made sense for her to venture out and do this record which is different than what she is usually involved in. There is much to love here and the highlight trax "Grown", "Wildflower Wood" & "Michigan Icarus" aren't to be missed. ****

Last week I had the pleasure of seeing the triple bill of Xiu Xiu, Tuneyards & Noveller at the Casbah here in San Diego. I was treated to some exceptional one woman soundscapes with both Tuneyards & Noveller providing the backdrop. Xiu Xiu was outrageously amazing live which is exactly what I hoped for and rather expected. That day I had some listens down memory lane resurrecting a few absolute favourite albums that I know every self respecting musical home should have in stock:

The Shore-The Shore (2004)

The Motels-Careful (1980)

Morrissey-You Are The Quarry (2004)

Fred Schneider of the B-52s is in a new project: The Superions. The self titled debut is out. Apparently the highlight is supposed to "Totally Nude Island". One version of this track is pretty good but I have to say that this is BAD and VERY half-baked. Perhaps like Elton, it's time Fred stopped putting stuff out.

Moon Duo-"Escape" [EP] (2010). From San Francisco, Moon Duo make a joyful psychedelic noise which at times is reminiscent of Loop or Suicide. "In The Trees" and "Motorcycle, I Love You" are definitely not to be missed. Basically, I wanted more. ****

Carbon/Silicon (the project of Mick Jones formerly of The Clash and Tony James formerly of Generation X) has released for free, via their website, their 2nd album "The Carbon Bubble" (2010). This album is an up and down, I like it, I hate it, I'm perplexed, oh! this is great, OH NO you didn't just do that, sort of record. Mick has always had the propensity for doing some things where you just have to shriek "eeks!" that I've always wondered about but even though he can be responsible for rubbish he still to this day can produce some great music. "What's Up Doc?" was the first such great moment on this album after the first few songs nearly had me abandoning the album completely. Additionally, "Reach For The Sky", "Make It Alright", & "DisUnited Kingdom" are worthy. Elsewhere there are moments here worth checking out again. I'll have to give it another spin soon and see if my opinion alters somewhat. ***

Shearwater have released the 3rd album in their trilogy series of "Palo Santo" (2007) *****, "Rook" (2008) ****, and now "TheGolden Archipelago" (2010) *****. Honestly, this band can't really do anything wrong. Prolific and talented, a Shearwater album is an engrossing experience. All of their 6 albums and 3 EPs deserve to be heard!!!

The Breakaways (featuring Peter Case and Paul Collins of The Beat)-"Walking Out On Love (The Lost Sessions '78)". I knew this would be a fun listen and I wasn't disappointed much. The talent these boys had early on was obvious. The first couple of albums from The Beat were exceptional back in 1979/80. And what can I say about Peter Case except he is a (mostly) unrecognized genius. Those of us who've been touched by his musical output over the past 30 + years know what a treasure he is. A nice slice of the past here.

Chris Olley-"A Streetcar Named Disaster" (2010). Chris was the lead singer of the ill fated band Six By Seven who were active from 1997-2004. Thankfully, Chris decided to continue on in music because his enduring talent is clearly evident on his first solo album. There is much diversity and much to like. Highlights for me: "Flying", "In Too Deep", "Throw Your Lovin Arms Around Me" & "Forever". Deserves wider listening. ****

The Big Pink release a new EP "Velvet" (2010). B-sides not on their excellent debut from 2009 "A Brief History Of Love". Forget the little (kinda unmemorable) EP and get on with an amazing 2nd album!! Check out the debut though, it's one of the best releases of 2009.

Juliana Hatfield-"Peace And Love" (2010). The reviews were great. I wanted to like this, but the truth is that Juliana's releases are hit and miss affairs. The track "I Picked You Up" is excellent but I'm trying to pinpoint another real highlight. Perhaps a second spin will elicit more of a response from me? We'll see.

Danny Paul Grody-"Fountain" (2010). Danny is a full time member of 2 bands: Tarentel and The Drift. This is a beautiful gently stirring near ambient at times album. "Four Years" & "Fountain" ARE devastatingly beautiful pieces. A review I read by Michael Ardaiolo had this to say: The tone is melancholy and autumnal throughout, with elements of dream-pop, drone, ambient, post-rock, chamber music and folk from both sides of the Atlantic all mingling and sharing characteristics. ****1/2

Charlotte Gainsbourg-"IRM" (with Beck) (2010). It should be billed as Charlotte AND Beck but noone asked me. She's still a frustrating prospect, despite her past. I'm just not totally convinced she's "musical". Acting is obviously her forte. That said, I was getting rather bored with the first half of this hot mess. Then something magical happened. "Vanities", "Trick Pony", "Greenwich Mean Time", "Dandelion" AND "Voyage" transformed this album into something special. Beck DID bring the goods to the table and in the end Charlotte delivered. ***1/2

My pick for best new album this week goes to: Corinne Bailey Rae-"The Sea" (2010). This is an engrossing perfectly executed album. After living through her husbands suicide a couple of years ago, Corinne returns with a sophmore album that to me is much stronger than her debut from 2006. There is so much to love here and like Alice Smith she is someone who is worth listening to. I'll let the album speak for itself so check it out! ****1/2

My second best pick this week is the latest from the KOMPAKT label: Pop Ambient 2010. A decade of Pop Ambient yearly releases does not fail to deliver. There is much in the likes of beauty and sound here. The 17 minute closer from Brock Van Wey/BV Dub) is so engrossing and worth the admission alone! Tune in, tune out. *****

MGMT-"Congratulations" (2010). This 2nd album isn't out for a few more weeks but it's been leaked online so free streams are everywhere now. Considering that Sonic Boom produced I expected more. At least on first listen I expected more. Still, in retrospect now there are a few yawn - why did you bother - moments for sure. I'll see if my opinion changes next time I listen to it. It's out April 13th.

Another of the gazillion unheralded bands out there in the universe have released their own "best of" collection. The band I See Hawks In L.A. operating in near obscurity for over a decade now released the appropriately titled "Shoulda Been Gold 2001-2009" (2010). Think Flying Burrito Brothers, The Byrds, Poco and you'll get the idea. Much to love here if you have any interest whatsover in alternative country music. ****

Definitely one of the best "new" bands to release a debut this year is Mumford & Sons-"Sigh No More" (2010 U.S.). This album came out last year in Britain and finally gets released here. It's spectacular really. Apparently they played with Laura Marling and Noah And The Whale and then went their own way a couple of years ago and after releasing some singles have put out this exquisite debut album. The songs are near painstakingly arranged and build to crescendos (a la Elbow). Apparently this is considered "new folk" or "indie folk". Whatever the tag, it deserves hearing. Another top pick. ****1/2

The Revere-"The Great City" (2010). A Concept album about individuals called in a dream to follow an Old Man to an unknown destination. There are a few good moments here but it's mostly forgettable emo. There I said it. I feel better now.

Alright I'm onto this week's new releases:

MARCH 23

1. ARCTIC MONKEYS-“MY PROPELLER” [EP] (3/23)

2. AUTECHRE-“OVERSTEPS” (3/23)

3. BAD LIEUTENANT-“TWIST OF FATE B/W POISONOUS INTENT – TINTIN’S DISCO MIX” (2-TRAX) (3/23)

4. THE BIRD & THE BEE-“VOL 1: INTERPRETATIONS OF HALL & OATES” (3/23)

5. CATE LE BON-“ME OH MY” (3/23)

6. BONNIE ‘PRINCE’ BILLY & THE CAIRO GANG-“WONDERSHOW OF THE WORLD” (3/23)

7. BONOBO-“BLACK SANDS” (3/23)

8. BOSTON SPACESHIPS-“CAMERA FOUND THE RAY GUN” [EP] (3/23)

9. ARCHIE BRONSON OUTFIT-“COCONUT” (3/23)

10. BILL CALLAHAN-“ROUGH TRAVEL FOR A RARE THING” (LIVE LTD EDITION DOUBLE VINYL ON DRAG CITY) (3/23)

11. CASINO VERSUS JAPAN-“NIGHT ON TAPE” (3/23)

12. THE COURTEENERS-“FALCON” (3/23)

13. CROCODILES-“NEON JESUS” (2-TRAX SINGLE) (3/23)

14. THE CRYSTAL ARK-“THE CITY NEVER SLEEPS” [EP] (3/16)

15. D BRIDGE & INSTRA MENTAL-“FABRICLIVE 50” (3/23)

16. DEAD MEADOW-“THREE KINGS” (LIVE) (3/23)

17. DOUBLE DAGGER-“MASKS” [EP] (3/23)

18. EL GOODO-“COYOTE” (3/23)

19. LOUIS ELIOT & THE EMBERS-“KITTOW’S MOOR” (3/23)

20. ERRORS-“COME DOWN WITH ME” (ON MOGWAI’S ROCK ACTION LABEL BUT NOT AVAIL) (3/23)

21. FOUR TET-“SING” [EP] (3/16)

22. JOHN FOXX-“MY LOST CITY” (3/22)

23. NILS FRAHM-“THE BELLS” (PRODUCED BY PETER BRODERICK) (3/23)

24. GOLDFRAPP-“HEAD FIRST” (3/23)

25. GOLDFRAPP-“ROCKET” (REMIXES EP) (3/8)

26. HIGH PLACES-“HIGH PLACES VS MANKIND” (3/23)

27. THE HIGH WIRE-“SLEEP TAPE” (IMPORT) (3/23)

28. MICAH P HINSON-“ALL DRESSED UP & SMELLING OF STRANGERS” (IMPORT) (3/23)

29. DAVE HOLLAND OCTET-“PATHWAYS” (3/23)

30. I CAN MAKE A MESS LIKE NOBODY’S BUSINESS-“THE WORLD WE KNOW” (3/23)

31. JANIS IAN-“NIGHT RAINS/RESTLESS EYES/ UNLCE WONDERFUL” (2-CD REMASTERED IMPORT) (3/23)

32. JANIS IAN-“MIRACLE ROW / JANIS IAN” (2-CD REMASTERED IMPORT) (3/23)

33. JASMINE MINKS-“POPPY WHITE” [EP] (3/22)

34. JOY ORBISON-“THE SHREW WOULD HAVE CUSHIONED THE BLOW” [EP] (3/22)

35. KID 606-“SONGS ABOUT FUCKING STEVE ALBINI” (3/23)

36. KLEENEX / LILIPUT-“LIVE RECORDINGS, TV-CLIPS & ROADMOVIE” (3/23)

37. LET’S WRESTLE-“IN THE COURT OF THE WRESTLING LET’S” (3/23)

38. LOVE IS ALL-“TWO THOUSAND AND TEN INJURIES” (3/23)

39. LUSINE-“LUCKY NUMBERS: THE GHOSTLY INTERNATIONAL EPS” (2-CD) (3/16)

40. MICHOACAN-“IN THE DARK OF THE NIGHT” (SINGLE) (3/23)

41. PALM SPRINGS-“NO HURT LIKE A BROKEN HEART” FROM 2007)

42. PALM SPRINGS-“THE HOPE THAT KILLS YOU” (3/23)

43. PEASANT-“SHADY RETREAT” (3/23)

44. PET SHOP BOYS-“PANDEMONIUM LIVE” (CD/DVD) (3/23)

45. THE RADAR BROTHERS-“ILLUSTRATED GARDEN” (3/23)

46. ROADSIDE GRAVES-“YOU WON’T BE HAPPY WITH ME” [EP] (3/23) + “IF SHACKING UP IS ALL YOU WANT TO DO” (2/23)

47. JACK ROSE-“LUCK IN THE VALLEY” (3/23)

48. SERENA MANEESH-“S-M 2: ABYSS IN B MINOR” (3/23)

49. SHE & HIM-“VOLUME TWO” (3/23)

50. SPANDAU BALLET-“DIAMOND” & “JOURNEYS TO GLORY” (DELUXE EDITIONS IMPORT (3/23)

51. JG THIRWELL-“MANORIXIA: THE MESOPELAGIC ATERS” (3/23)

52. SCOTT TUMA-“DANDELION” (LP) (3/23)

53. TUNNG-“AND THEN WE SAW LAND” (3/23)

54. THE UNTHANKS-“HERE’S THE TENDER COMING” (U.S. EDITION) (3/23)

55. KATHRYN WILLIAMS-“THE QUICKENING” (3/9)

56. WOODHANDS-“REMORSECAPADE” (3/23)

57. WOODHANDS-“HEART ATTACK” (FROM 2008 THEIR DEBUT)

58. VARIOUS ARTISTS (AKA: JAMES MURPHY, LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, DURAN DURAN)-“GREENBERG” SOUNDTRACK (3/23)

A;

Week 11 2010 March 16 - New Releases & Some Reviews

Welcome back to another week of hot topics. Ha! Somehow I missed the band Puressence who began in the 90s. I'm more surprised to learn that they are from Manchester England as well. All I can say is I can't know everything! After reading about them not too long ago, I picked up "Don't Forget To Remember" from 2007. Wow! What a superb album this is! Compared to Radiohead, Oasis and The Charlatans I just think they've got their own sound going on and the singer has a fabulous voice and the songs are excellent. ***** I just picked up their collection "Sharpen Up The Knives" from 2009 so I'll be checking that one out soon.

The amazing and underrated folk singer Kath Bloom is back with "Thin Thin Line" (2010). She has done several albums with the also amazing guitarist Loren Mazzacane-Connors. This new solo album is on Mark Kozelek's (Red House Painters) label. Songs of hope and longing wrapped in Kath's fragile delivery are intimately beautiful and engaging. ****

A Broken Consort-"Crow Autumn" (2010) is the 2nd full length out and I'm sad to say I'm rather disappointed a bit with this release. The 2009 release "Box Of Birch" is really terrific heavily layered textures/drone pieces that sound great. Perhaps this new album was put together too quickly? Nothing really grabbed me too much. **

Aidan Baker-"Liminoid/Lifeforms" (2010) has a huge catologue of music over the past 10 years. I hadn't become aware of him until 2008 when he released an album on the Alien8 label. This new release is spectacular! With what must be a fantastic collection of musicians these pieces soar and I just loved listening to it. **** 1/2

Ben + Vesper-"Luvinidlesness" [EP] (2010). The husband/wife duo return with a nearly throwaway EP. If it wasn't for "I Ask Because I Can" it would have been completely worthless. Disappointed. *

The Vandelles-"The Vandelles" [EP] (2007/2010) A Re-release as a precursor to a full length. It begins as a successor to the Jesus and Mary Chain throne and then quite quickly evaporates into "Huh?". I was scratching my head by the end over the half baked ideas that could have, but weren't developed. If they are continuing on I hope they put in more thought. "Lovely Weather" is pretty darn good though. **

City Center-"Spring St." [EP] (2010). I loved their debut last year so I'm left perplexed over this new release. I didn't get this one.

Pillars and Tongues-"Lay Of Pilgrim Park" (2010). They came to my attention via having done something with Bonnie Prince Billy. They are from Chicago and definitely have a sound all their own. I wanted to like it more than I did. Perhaps I'll have to give it another spin before I can really say either way. JURY OUT!

Theodore-"Hold You Like A Lover" (2010). ***** This is my favourite pick album for the past week's listening. This is an excellent album from beginning to end. I read about this band from St. Louis somewhere and being intrigued just picked up their new release. I didn't expect it to be so amazing. Apparently this is their 4th album so I must dig deeper now. It has aspects of alt-country but there is really so much more going on here as well. This is definitely a hard working band who deserves to be heard now and I can see why they've played with the likes of Lambchop, Damien Jurado, Deertick, Richmond Fontaine to just name a few. I'm sure this will be in my top picks of 2010!!

You Say Party! We Say Die!-"XXXX" (2010). Around since 2003, this band is still slowly gaining attention. There is definitely an 80s synth vibe going on and there are a few moments when the singer Becky conjures up Siouxsie almost eerily exact. But that vibe does not persist throughout. Caught somewhere between new wave/punk/electro is where they find themselves. For the most part I rather enjoyed this new album. ***1/2

The Album Leaf-"A Chorus Of Storytellers" (2010). I've loved Jimmy LaValle's work as The Album Leaf for the past 11 years. This new release has him working in a "band" situation instead of playing everything himself. This is my 2nd top pick for the week. It's another fantastic release from this highly underrated musician and if you want to hear some great new music then pick this up immediately! ****1/2

AM-"Future Sons & Daughters" (2010). His "Soul Variations" album from 2007 was especially delicious and then he released a duets album last year. Therefore I was looking forward to this new release. Obviously something happened on his way to making this album. Whatever it was, I don't care for it much at all. Mostly the songs left me empty. There are 2 saving graces here: "It's Been So Long" and "Self Preservation". Otherwise; whatever! *

Various Artists-The Wire Magazine Presents: Cafe Concrete Plymouth College City Project (March 2010 Magazine issue free CD). Usually, the Wire delivers some amazing music on their compilations. However, this isn't one of those. Aside from 2 very interesting pieces, the rest of this is rather unforgettable. Rarely am I disappointed in their selections as a whole but this one not so much to like.

Fanfarlo-"ITunes Session" [EP] (2010). What can I say about this band? How about that they delivered one of the BEST debuts of 2009 with "Reservoir". It's amazing and if you don't have it yet then you owe it to yourself to hear what was right in music in 2009. This EP has live interpretations of songs from that album and a couple of non lp trax as well. LOVE THEM! ****

The Explorers Club series is back with #2 Paris-Madrid. The first one which I reviewed before was excellent. This one a bit disappointing. It has Minotaur Shock (not good), Smile Down Upon Us (also not so good), and Snowbird (VERY GOOD!). So, one out of three...

The Felice Brothers-"Mix Tape" (2010). This is a mixed bag release. It's not perfect like their other proper albums but there is still much here to like. These guys are amazing and under appreciated just like Richmond Fontaine are. There are some stunners here like: "Let me come home", "Forever Green", & "Old Song". Additionally "White Limo" is quite great. Their mediocre stuff is better than most people's releases! ***1/2

Field Music-"Field Music (Measure)" (2-CD) (2010). Ambitious new release from the interesting Field Music. This, their 3rd release is a long, and at times drawn out affair. I'm still trying to forgive the pointless 9 minute album ending track here. There are moments of greatness here but there are also an equal amount of frustrating moments. I read that their goal was to release what would become one of the classic double albums. Sorry boys, this isn't it. ***1/2

The Wooden Birds-"Montague St." [EP] (2010). More delicious songs from the ever prolific Andrew Kenny formerly of American Analog Set. ****

Moon Wiring Club-"A Field Full Of Sunken Horses" [EP] (2010). Downtempo and out there electronic stylings from the mysterious MWC. The first 2 trax are excellent and the other 2 are just kind of there. **1/2

She & Him-"Volume 2" (2010). The upcoming second collaboration between M. Ward and Zooey Deschanel. I will say that I did not much care for the first album Volume 1. It wore on me real quick and I barely made it through it. Therefore I had NO hopes for this new release. Imagine my surprise yesterday when I listened to it on a free pre-release stream and REALLY enjoyed it. This new album is much stronger than the debut. Perhaps I'll have to re-listen to the debut and see if I like it any better now but this new album is definitely a step in the right direction. I'll save my rating until I listen to it again. It's out next Tues.

Local Natives-"Gorilla Manor" (2010). Ok, this is my next TOP pick for the week! This album is spectacular!!! The next super sensation from Silver Lake in Los Angeles. This year this is the band they'll be talking about instead of Silversun Pickups who made a great impression the past few years. This year belongs to Local Natives. When you hear the voices on these songs and the excellent arrangements you too will be won over. Stylistically very hard to pin down. There is an absolutely perfect cover of the Talking Heads' "Warning Sign" that I can't get enough of. Everything else here is theirs and it's an impressive debut. Don't wait on this one! ****1/2

Lightspeed Champion-"Life Is Sweet, Nice To Meet You" (2010). 2nd full length and this is another great new release. He manages to remind of another favourite band of mine, GENE, in his vocal stylings on many occasions. It's a BIG complement coming from me. Some of the songs here are better than others, but this is still a strong follow up to his great debut from 2007. "Marlene" is definitely a top single for the year! ***1/2

Ok now onto this week's new releases:

MARCH 16

1. THE AUDITION-“GREAT DANGER” (3/16)

2. SLIM CESSNA’S AUTO CLUB-“BURIED BENEATH THE BARN” (3/16)

3. CONFORCE-“MACHINE CONSPIRACY” (3/15)

4. DISCO BISCUITS-“PLANET ANTHEM” (3/16)

5. THE DUKE SPECIAL-“HUCKLEBERRY FIN” [EP] (3/9) + “DUKE SPECIAL PRESENTS THE SONGS FROM MOTHER COURAGE AND HER CHILDREN” (2/28) + “ THE SILENT WORLD OF HECTOR MANN” (2/28) ( IT’S FROM “THE STAGE, THE BOOK & THE SILVER SCREEN” A 3-CD COLLECTION COMPRISING THE SECRET WORLD OF HECTOR MANN, PRODUCED BY STEVE ALBINI WITH ED HARCOURT & NEIL HANNON)

6. DRIVE BY TRUCKERS-“THE BIG TO-DO” (3/16)

7. EDDIE CURRANT SUPPRESSION RING-“RUSH TO RELAX” (3/16)

8. EMANUEL AND THE FEAR-“LISTEN” (3/16)

9. EXTRA LIFE-“MADE FLESH” (3/16)

10. FLOBOTS-“SURVIVAL STORY” (3/16)

11. FLUXION-“PERFUSED” (3/16) (COMPARED TO BASIC CHANNEL, RICHIE HAWTIN, JEFF MILLS)

12. FURSAXA-“MYCORRHIZAE” (3/16)

13. MARY GAUTHIER-“FOUNDLING” (IMPORT) (PRODUCED BY MICHAEL TIMMINS OF COWBOY JUNKIES) (37.49) (3/16)

14. GLASS CANDY-“FEELING WITHOUT TOUCHING” [EP] (3/16)

15. ELLIE GOULDING-“LIGHTS” (IMPORT) (3/16)

16. ROBIN GUTHRIE-“SUNFLOWER STORIES” [EP] (3/15)

17. HAPPY BIRTHDAY-“HAPPY BIRTHDAY” (3/16)

18. HOODOO GURUS-“PURITY OF ESSENCE” (NEW STUDIO ALBUM, THEIR 9^TH!) (IMPORT (3/16)

19. PHYLLIS HYMAN-“GODDESS OF LOVE” (FIRST TIME ON CD REISSUE FROM 1983)

20. I AM ROBOT AND PROUD-“UPHILL CITY REMIXES & COLLABORATIONS” (3/16)

21. KAISERDISCO-“PEZ GORDO” [EP] (3/15)

22. BILLY RAY MARTIN-“THE CRACKDOWN PROJECT, VOL. 2 (DARKNESS RESTORED: THE CRACKDOWN / FASCINATION) (3/15)

23. BRAD MEHLDAU-“HIGHWAY RIDER” (2-CD) (3/16)

24. NEON TREES-“HABITS” (3/16)

25. ONE FOR THE TEAM-“GHOSTS” (3/16)

26. JOHN PARISH-“SHE, A CHINESE” (SOUNDTRACK) (3/16)

27. GRAHAM PARKER-“IMAGINARY TELEVISION” (3/16)

28. POCAHAUNTED-“MAKE IT REAL” (LP ) (3/16)

29. THE RUNAWAYS-“MERCURY ALBUMS ANTHOLOGY” (2-CD) (3/16)

30. ULRICH SCHNAUSS-“MISSING DEADLINES: SELECTED REMIXES” (3/15)

31. THE SECRET HISTORY-“WORLD THAT NEVER WAS” (MICK RONSON’S DAUGHTER IS IN IT!) (3/16)

32. SOLID GOLD-“BODIES OF WATER” (3/16)

33. SOLID GOLD-“SYNCHRONIZE” [EP] (3/16)

34. STANDARD FARE-“THE NOYELLE BEAT” (3/16)

35. THE STRANGLERS-“DECADES APART” (2-CD BEST OF COLLECTION IMPORT) (3/16)

36. TALL SHIPS-“S/T” [EP] (3/15)

37. TWIN ATLANTIC-“VIVARIUM” (U.S. RELEASE) (3/16)

38. THE WHIGS-“IN THE DARK” (3/16)

39. THE WHITE STRIPES-“UNDER GREAT WHITE NORTHERN LIGHTS” (3/16)

40. JOSIAH WOLF-“JETLAG” (FROM WHY?) (3/16)

ENJOY!!!!

Week 10 2010 March 9 - New Releases & Some Reviews

R.I.P. Mark Linkous. And thank you for the great music you've left behind. The other day I read a moving piece by Kurt Wagner of Lambchop on his friend Vic Chesnutt. I was sobbing through the entire eulogy because it was so moving and the situation was so sad. Life is short and it is fragile and some of us just aren't so strong to endure living it day after day for whatever reasons.

The new release from Thee Silver Mt Zion Memorial Orchestra is "Kollaps Tradixionales" (2010). I believe this is their 6th album now. Always an ensemble defying categorization after at first being an offshoot of Godspeed You Black Emperor! This album has more vocals and is musically all over the map as I would expect. I found the album to be very engaging and challenging and haven't agreed with some of the reviews I've read that have said it's a lackluster album. Just listen to "I Built Myself A Metal Bird" and you'll hear why it's not a letdown. ****

Laura Gibson & Ethan Rose - "Bridge Carols" (2010). This is Laura's 4th album and first with a collaborator. Ethan is an ambient music producer. This is a very FRAGILE pairing. The songs exist yet they do feel as if they could fall apart any moment. Fragile, delicate and beautiful. At moments I found some songs to be quite enthralling. *** 1/2

Over the weekend while driving to L.A. I enjoyed a couple of remastered New Order classics. "Technique" (1989) & "Brotherhood" (1986) are particular favourites and to say that they've aged well is an understatement. Both of these albums are perfect and indicative of great music released in the 80s. I get so irritated when idiots speak of the 80s. The only people who say that stupid remark are the ones who have no clue about what was fantastic about music in the 80s because they obviously listened to crap on the radio. DUH!!!!! After hours of New Order I had to listen to The Smiths - "Meat Is Murder" (1985) especially since I'd been thinking recently of it after realizing it is the 25th anniversary of this masterpiece. Another slice of musical perfection.

What has to be one of the best new bands is Fanfarlo. Their 2009 debut "Reservoir" has been in heavy rotation for me lately. While they've been playing for several years, they didn't release their full length until October 2009. It's a fantastic album and I highly recommend it to everyone! *****

Aerial is a band who have tons of albums out. I recently read about them and they were compared to being like Explosions In The Sky so I was intrigued. There is so much to love here! They do bring the white noise and it sounds fantastic! I've just checked out three of their albums:

"The Sentinel" (2007). "The Legion Of Dynamic Dischord" (2008). "Black Rain From The Bombing" (2006). If you like your white noise epic and sometimes breathtaking then Aerial is for you!

The ever prolific Xiu Xiu is back with the fantastically titled "Dear God, I Hate Myself" (2010). Is this his 9th album since 2002 already? It's close anyway and that's not counting collaborations and singles galore. I've always loved Jamie Stewart's lyrics since I first heard him which began for me in 2004 with the exquisite "Fabulous Muscles" album. Since then I've been hooked. Their is a slight change up in the members now with an addition from the band Deerhoof. This has helped the music sound fresh and the confessionals are all still here making this a very enjoyable and engrossing Xiu Xiu album. ****

Now onto the new releases for this week. As has been the case this year so far, there are a ton of new releases again. Who can keep up? Well, obviously as much as I try I do admit it is nearly impossible. I can only listen as fast and as much as I can, otherwise it's not fun. Music is not a chore, it is a choice. When one chooses what to listen to and when to listen to it, the music becomes so much more special and engaging. Perhaps you will allow yourself time in your life to experience some of the new music that is being released this year.

Enjoy this week's new releases:

MARCH 9

1. ALOHA-“HOME ACRES” (3/9)

2. LAWRENCE ARABIA-“CHANT DARLING” (3/9)

3. MATTHEW BARBER-“TRUE BELIEVER” (3/9)

4. THE BESNARD LAKES-“ARE THE ROARING NIGHT” (3/9)

5. BIFFY CLYRO-“ONLY REVOLUTIONS” (U.S. DIGITAL RELEASE) (3/9)

6. BLACK REBEL MOTORCYCLE CLUB-“BEAT THE DEVIL’S TATTOO” (3/9)

7. THE BLED-“HEAT FETISH” (3/9)

8. BLOOD RED SHOES-“FIRE LIKE THIS” (IMPORT) (3/9)

9. STEPHEN BRODSKY-“HERE’S TO THE FUTURE” (3/9)

10. BROKEN BELLS-“S/T” (3/9)

11. JASON COLLETT-“RAT A TAT TAT” (FROM BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE) (3/9)

12. DAUGHTERS-“DAUGHTERS” (3/9)

13. DELPHIC-“DOUBT” (3/9)

14. DINOSAUR FEATHERS-“FANTASY MEMORIAL” (3/9)

15. THE DUKE SPECIAL-“HUCKLEBERRY FIN” [EP] (3/9) + “DUKE SPECIAL PRESENTS THE SONGS FROM MOTHER COURAGE AND HER CHILDREN” (2/28) + “ THE SILENT WORLD OF HECTOR MANN” (2/28)

16. EXTRA LIFE-“MADE FLESH” (3/9)

17. MELISSA FERRICK-“ENOUGH ABOUT ME” (3/9)

18. THE FORECAST-“THE FORECAST” (3/9)

19. FRIGHTENED RABBIT-“THE WINTER OF MIXED DRINKS” (3/9)

20. JIMI HENDRIX-“VALLEYS OF NEPTUNE” (3/9)

21. JASON & THE SCORCHERS-“HALCYON TIMES” (IMPORT) (3/9)

22. ZOLA JESUS-“STRIDULUM” [EP] (3/9)

23. JJ-“JJ NO.3” (3/9)

24. THE KNIFE-“TOMORROW, IN A YEAR” (CD OUT 3/9, DIGITAL OUT 2/2)

25. MILES KUROSKY (FORMER BEULAH FRONTMAN)-“THE DESERT OF SHALLOW EFFECTS” (3/9)

26. PATTY LARKIN-“25” (3/9)

27. TED LEO & THE PHARMACISTS-“THE BRUTALIST BRICKS” (3/9)

28. LIARS-“SISTERWORLD” (DELUXE EDITION WITH BONUS CD) (3/9)

29. THE LOVE SUPREME-“NEW MILLENNIUM FREAKS” (3/9)

30. TOM MCRAE-“ALPHABET OF HURRICANES” (3/9)

31. THE MORNING BENDERS-“BIG ECHO” (3/9)

32. NEW YOUNG PONY CLUB-“THE OPTIMIST” (IMPORT) (3/9)

33. OF MICE & MEN-“S/T” (3/9)

34. PAVEMENT-“QUARANTINE THE PAST: THE BEST OF PAVEMENT” (3/9)

35. JOSH ROUSE-“EL TURISTA” (3/9)

36. SPARKS-“SEDUCTION OF INGMAR BERGMAN” (U.S.) (3/9)

37. TANLINES-“SETTINGS” (3/8)

38. TITUS ANDRONICUS-“MONITOR” (3/9)

39. TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB-“TOURIST HISTORY” (3/9)

40. VIA AUDIO-“ANIMALORE” (3/9)

41. WHITE HINTERLAND-“KAIROS” (3/9)

Week 9 2010 March 2 - New Releases & Some Reviews

When last I wrote I was deep into the new release by BT - "These Hopeful Machines". While I could live without 95% of the remixes the 2 hour plus mixes that make up the double album is pretty good. I did really enjoy the slowly haunting cover at the end of "The Ghost in You". It was a nice touch and this new album does have it's moments and it did remind me of Chicane at times. However, making it continual without individual trax IS unforgivable. ***

Best Coast is a new band which has a former member of Pocahaunted as its leader. This band is nothing like the former. This is a lo-fi affair and I can feel the music will be a grower on me. Singles and EPs have been released thus far: "Make You Mine" [EP], "When I'm With You" (single), "Sun Was High (So Was I)" (single), & "Something In The Way" [EP]. A concise full length could seal it for me. ***1/2

Uncut & Mojo magazines discs for Feb 2010 are interesting. The Uncut disc is bands influenced by Hendrix. It's not a super impressive collection. The Mojo disc is a compilation by Amorphous Androgynous (The Future Sound Of London). It has some interesting music I've never heard of but it's not amazing.

Patty Griffin is back with a new release "Downtown Church" (2010). Gospel is NOT my forte. However, there are several beautiful songs on here like the opener "House of Gold" and a duet with Emmylou Harris and one with Julie Miller. Those were the highlights for me. **1/2

The duo, Phantogram released their debut "Eyelid Movies" (2010). At first, I wasn't sure if I thought it was crap or really good. Turns out when I gave it another spin, I found it to be really good! ***1/2

Estroe-"Elemental Assets" (2010) is an electronica mostly instrumental save for a track with guest Miss Kittin (who I LOVE) and this is a great sounding album which heads directly to the dance floor. ****

Machinefabriek recently gave away a free download of older trax "De Jonge Jaren (2001-2004)" which is a fantastic collection of music. I'm a BIG fan and have even snatched up some limited edition Machinefabriek vinyl over the years. Just an amazingly creative brilliant soundscaper like Fennesz. However, their music is not the same. There are surprises on here that aren't like the past 5 years of the sound of Machinefabriek. However, everything on here is excellent and I am excited to have this collection. *****

Enigma have just released a 3-CD collection "The Platinum Collection". Disc 1: Greatest Hits. Disc 2: Remixes. Disc 3: Lost Trax. UGH! Why did anyone like this? I still can't believe I even bothered and wasted all this time on this 3-CD!! Well, truth be told, I found it so bad that I forwarded tracks so often I was done in no time at all. No rating because it's so bad and contrived drivel. File with yanni...

Sade-"Soldier Of Love" (2010). I'm going to say it up front. CASH COW!!!!!! Now that I've said that, I am a bit of a Sade fan. I thought it would be nice to hear her again. However, the single is a total bore, thus being a BAD single. The album heads on a downward spiral real quick and there is an unforgivably bad track on here as well. There are 3 songs on there that are worthy of being in her catalogue: Morning Bird, In Another Time & The Safest Place. Were it not for these 3 it would have been a total waste. *

My favourite pick of this bunch this past week, is the new release from The Soft Pack-"S/T" (2010). They used to be called The Muslims, but for obvious reasons that didn't continue to work for them. This album is GREAT! It gets off to a great start and (nearly) doesn't stumble. It's not perfect but it's full of power and action and that is just what I wanted from it. ****1/2

Yeasayer are back with their 2nd album "Odd Blood" (2010). I must say, that is an accurate title for this band for sure. I don't recall finding their debut frustrating. In fact, I recall quite liking it. This one has it's moments and then it has possibilities that veer off into territory I feel they should have strayed from. The track "Madder Red" is what I think should have been the initial single for this album instead of "Ambling Alp". I've noticed online that people are picking "Love Me Girl" as the next single. This song is a PRIME example of what I'm talking about. The first half is brilliant and then what happens is a disaster! WHY!! That's what I was saying as it was playing, along with "this is SO wrong". There's no denying their talent. It's here. However, too many ideas within one song can ruin the whole bunch girl! ***

This next one is exquisitely delicious and my 2nd best pick of this batch. It's by Pantha Du Prince - "Black Noise" (2010). An ear candy electronica journey that is just fantastic. Apparently he is a popular German remixer highly in demand. Hearing this new solo album I can clearly see why. I love everything on here. Just check it out. *****

The Watson Twins return with "Talking To You, Talking To Me" (2010). I was expecting a less than stellar album after reading so many reviews saying it was boring and bad and why did they bother. Hello? Did we hear the same record? Guess not. I like it. These girls can sing and play and it's not a departure from their previous records, but it's good. There are strong songs on here and they clearly confuse the genre boundaries which is something I liked about them from the first time I heard them a few years ago. It's not perfect but it's not bad either. ***1/2.

Ok, that's all my reviews for this week. Onto the list for new releases this week and it's another massive one! Until next time, happy ears!!!!

MARCH 2

1. AFTERNOON SAINTS (LEE RANALDO, DAVID WATSON, CHRISTIAN MARCLAY & GUNTER MULLER)-“SHIRLEY JANGLE” (3/2)

2. DAVID AUGUST-“SWEDEN ROOF” (Single) (3/2)

3. ATHLETE-“BLACK SWAN” (U.S. EDITION) (3/2)

4. BABYBIRD-“EX-MANIAC” ( IMPORT) (3/2)

5. THE BLACK BOX REVELATION-“SILVER THREATS” (3/2)

6. BOMB THE BASS-“BACK TO LIGHT” (3/2)

7. CHRIS BROKAW-“SOLO ACOUSTIC, VOL. 3” (3/2)

8. DAVID THOMAS BROUGHTON-“BOATING DISASTERS” [EP] (2/15)

9. CLIFFORDANDCALIX-“LOST FOUNDLING” (1999-2004) (MIRA CALIX AND GUY FROM SEEFEEL) (3/2)

10. CLOGS-“THE CREATURES IN THE GARDEN OF LADY WALTON” (3/2) (WITH SUFJAN STEVENS, SHARA WORDEN & MATT BERNINGER FROM THE NATIONAL)

11. DARK DARK DARK-“BRIGHT BRIGHT BRIGHT” (3/2)

12. EDITORS-“YOU DON’T KNOW LOVE” [EP] (LTD EDITION) (3/2)

13. EL GOODO-“COYOTE” (3/2)

14. FENN O’BERG-“IN STEREO” (3/2)

15. 4HERO & DJ MARKY-“THE KINGS OF DRUM + BASS” (3-CD) (3/2)

16. JOHN FOXX-“MY LOST CITY” (3/2)

17. PETER GABRIEL-“SCRATCH MY BACK” (DELUXE EDITION 2-CD) (3/2)

18. GOLDEN TRIANGLE-“DOUBLE JOINTER” (3/2)

19. GROOVE ARMADA-“BLACK LIGHT” (3/2) + “PAPER ROMANCE EP PART 1” (2/9)

20. JOHN HIATT-“THE OPEN ROAD” (3/2)

21. INERTIA-“KLONED” (COVERS CD) (3/2 IMPORT )

22. JAGUAR LOVE-“HOLOGRAM JAMS” (3/2)

23. KAMMERFLIMMER KOLLEKTIEF-“WILDLING” (3/2)

24. LITTLE BOOTS-“HANDS” (3/2)

25. LOSCIL-“ENDLESS FALLS” (3/2)

26. MAVIS-“MAVIS” (3/2)

27. THE JOHN MOORE ROCK AND ROLL TRIO FEATURING THE LOOSE MOORELLES-“ROLL YOUR ACTIVATOR” (3/1)

28. MOTORPSYCHO-“HEAVY METAL FRUIT” (3/2)

29. PICASTRO-“BECOME SECRET” (2/22)

30. POLAR BEAR-“PEEPERS” (3/3)

31. EMMA POLLOCK-“THE LAW OF LARGE NUMBERS” (3/2)

32. PORTUGAL THE MAN-“AMERICAN GHETTO” (3/2)

33. FIONN REGAN-“SHADOW OF AN EMPIRE” (IMPORT ) (3/2)

34. RIPPERTON-“NIWA" (3/2)

35. ROGUE WAVE-“PERMALIGHT” (3/2)

36. THE RUBY SUNS-“FLIGHT SOFTLY” (3/2)

37. SEABEAR-“WE BUILT A FIRE” (3/2)

38. VALGIR SIGURDSSON-“DRAUMALANDIO” (3/2)

39. THE STRANGE BOYS-“BE BRAVE” (3/2)

40. A SUNNY DAY IN GLASGOW-“NITETIME RAINBOWS” EP (3/2)

41. THESE NEW PURITANS-“HIDDEN” (3/2)

42. ANDREW THOMAS-“BETWEEN BUILDINGS AND TREES” (ON KOMPAKT) (3/2)

43. SETH TROXLER-“BOOGYBYTES” VOL. 5 (3/2)

44. MIKA VAINIO & KOUHEI MATSUNAGA-“SPLIT EP” (ON IMPORTANT RECORDS) (3/2)

45. MIKA VAINIO & SEAN BOOTH & KOUHEI MASUNAGA-“TELEPATHICS MEH IN-SECT ER CONNECTION” (ON IMPORTANT RECORDS) (3/2)

46. MIKA VAINIO-“TIME EXAMINED” (BOOK + 2-CD) (3/2)

47. A WEATHER-“EVERYDAY BALLOONS” (3/2)

48. JOSIAH WOLF-“JETLAG” (FROM WHY?) (3/2)

49. WOLF PEOPLE-“TIDINGS” (3/2) (ON JAGJAGUWAR

50. YELLOW SWANS-“GOING PLACES” (3/2)