February 2013 best albums

Autechre - Exai

I must admit, when I first came across Autechre all I could think was "I just don't get it". To the casual listener, it is easy to understand why with the extremely glitchy abstract sounds and general fuckeduppedness. However in over 20 years together the duo have created some stellar albums, and many argue that Exai is up with the best. At 17 tracks lasting just over 2 hours, Exai takes you on a long haul of IDM which can leave some restless. Nevertheless, Autechre is raw, physical and unrelenting as ever.

8.0  / 10

Hear - jatevee C

Benjamin Damage - Heliosphere

As soon as I heard the first track of the album I thought I was on to a winner. Heliosphere is the debut from Benjamin Damage, a Welsh techno producer based in Berlin. The first listen you enjoy the main heavy (but not agressive) beats from each track, however it is when you have a few more listens do you admire some of the intricate layers added into each song. With songs like "Delirium Tremens" and "Swarm" you could close your eyes and feel like your in a rave, and I sure would love to if he's playing.

8.5  / 10

Hear - Swarm

Darkstar - News From Nowhere

London trio Darkstar have transformed themselves from your standard post-dubstep artist into a purveyor of great alternative and electronica music. There is something very mystical and foggy about this record, which has some resemblance with Animal Collective. However I think it is best to distance the two artists, with Darkstar seeming to have more of a 70s psychedelic influence. Overall I was pleasantly suprised by the quality of this album and hope to hear more in the future.

7.5  / 10

Hear - Amblified Ease 

My Bloody Valentine - mbv

Much has already been said about My Bloody Valentine's first album in over 20 years. Like if they never were apart, MBV is a testament to the incredible talent of the noise pop artists. As always with My Bloody Valentine expect a wall of distorted sounds with the guitars turned to volume 11. However that is not true for all the tracks, with some being more subdued creating wonderfully mystical atmospheres. I don't think any fan of the band can leave disappointed with this even after 20 years.

8.5  / 10

Hear - She Found Now

January 2013 top albums

So new year new start, and thought it would be good to see what were the best albums released this month:

A$AP Rocky - Long.Live.A$AP.

A$AP Rocky delivers again with a good album. The album starts of fantastically with "Long.Live.A$AP" and "Goldie" which draw you in straight away. Unfortunately the album teetered for me further into the album. A$AP Rocky is not the greatest lyricist but he does enough using his sometimes amusing rhymes with some bold beats. 

7.0 / 10

Hear - Goldie

Emancipator - Dusk to Dawn

Released just near the end of the month, downtempo artist Emancipator's third album is beautiful. Each song takes its own journey, all individually exceptional that bring together a soulful album. Dusk to Dawn is a delicate masterpiece without needing to do anything brash to get your attention. Sit somewhere comfortable, close your eyes and enjoy.

8.0 / 10

Hear - Minor Cause

FaltyDL - Hardcourage

FaltyDL has never been one for sticking to a single style and genre of music, and it is certainly difficult to pin him down to one. Hardcourage didn't hit out to me straight away, however it is certainly a grower. Some songs are a bit too floaty whilst others are right on point, which I guess in a sense is what he wants. Still very much an enjoyable album.

7.0 / 10

Hear - Karme

Ochre - National Ignition

Christopher Leary is someone I have been very interested for a few months now, managing to produce fantastic sounds just using his computer. National Ignition is another fine example of how Ochre manages to use both hard hitting beats with beautiful symphonies. There is much complexity and depth into the music that makes it very risky to overcomplicate songs, however Ochre seems to avoid this well. Probably his best album yet from an artist who deserves much more exposure than he currently does.

8.5 / 10

Hear - Glassmaker

Nosaj Thing - Home

L.A's Jason Chung is back four years after his plauditted debut album, Drifts. His new album Home, chooses a much more subtle approach to entice this listener. The best from the album is aided by appearances from Toro Y Moi and a personal favourite of mine, Kazu Makino of Blonde Redhead, who both really add perfect vocals for an ambient theme. Overall Home sees Chung going more into ambient and mellow music, which is wonderful to hear, unfortunately it doesn't grab you.

7.5 / 10

Best of 2012

Thought I would go back to my tradition with my most liked albums of the year. This time I have done it in alphabetical order.

Andy Stott - Luxury Problems

Luxury Problem is a dark ambient dub techno album that keeps giving. It consists of the seductive vocals of  Alison Skidmore (whom was Stott's piano teacher) narrating his haunting loops. It is a beautifully understated and stylish album.

9.0/10

Hear - Numb

Bat For Lashes  - The Haunted Man

Third album from London born Natasha Khan, and it's another solid one. Comparisons with Kate Bush are easy to make, Khan puts everything into her songs, and this album is no exception. The Haunted Man is one of the most refreshing albums in popular music this year, and Khan is growing an ever more impressive catalogue.

8.0/10

Hear - Laura

Beach House - Bloom

Beach House seem to have a winning formula with their music. All songs have an incredible aura with the inviting voice and perfectly layered sounds. Not a weak song on the album, I don't think Beach House are capable of anything else. Great listen for a relaxing Sunday afternoon.

8.0/10

Hear - Myth

Cat Power - Sun

Although her ninth album, Sun is Chan Marshall's first original album in since The Greatest (2006). Since then Chan had several demons to fight. Sun sees Chan Marshall in a different light. She diffuses the soulfulness of previous records with a more sharp edged and upbeat set of tracks. One thing that is not lost is her passion and appeal. 

8.0/10

Hear - Cherokee

Cloud Nothings - Attack on Memory

Moody Indie Rockers Cloud Nothings got 2012 rocking in January with their third album, Attack on Memory. Dark, catchy and emotional, this album is addictive. It also causes every listener to become an air drummer. Wasted Days is possibly my favourite song of this year.

7.5/10

Hear - Wasted Days

Death Grips - Death Grips

Death Grips are like marmite, you either love them or you hate them. There is simply no other sound like them. Heavy and Aggressive beats and rhymes, Death Grips are in your face and not afraid. Remember to catch your breath.

8.5/10

Hear - Get Got

Fiona Apple - The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than The Driver Of The Screw & Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do

An incredible 7 years from her previous album The Extraordinary Machine (2005), Fiona Apple releases her fourth album The Idler Wheel. There is an influx of raw passion delightfully contradicting with masterful and unpredictable composition. The Idler Wheel is ambitious, raw and yet elegant. 

9.0/10

Hear - Every Single Night

Flying Lotus - Until The Quiet Comes

Fourth album for FlyLo, and eagerly awaited by fans such as myself. Stephen Ellison is an ambitious electronic producer who doesn't just release a new set of songs for an album, but each album draws different influences and themes. Until The Quiet Comes has less layers than other works, with a more flowing and melodic feel. Each song is very different song from another, however they all intertwine well. One of the masters in his genre, FlyLo does it again.

8.5/10

Hear - Putty Boy Strut

Four Tet - Pink

Sixth album from Kieran Hebden, Pink did not have much buzz or anticipation. However that is not to say it is not a good album. Many songs are previously released singles, which make the album understandably contrasting in sounds. Compared to past works, this album does seem more serious. However each song has something different to offer, which all salute electronic and house music. Pink is another solid album from one of the most consistent electronic musicians around.

7.5/10

Hear - Lion

Frank Ocean - channel ORANGE

Debut for R&B singer Frank Ocean, channel ORANGE has got rave reviews across all boards this year. No.1 in many peoples top albums of the year. Frank Ocean is not your average RnB/Soul musician, in one word he is unorthodox. channel ORANGE contrasts in its themes, lyrics and is generally full of conundrums. For me I feel some songs do suffer from over narration, however that is his style. A sexual and lyrical album that has really got Frank Ocean running.

8.0/10

Hear - Pyramids

Godspeed You! Black Emperor - 'Allelujah! Don't Bend! Ascend!

After ten years out, the experimental post-rockers GYBE produce an experience to the listener like no other. Only four tracks in the 55 minute album, in true GYBE style. The sheer atmosphere that each composition has gives an enthralling blood raising feeling. One of my best experiences of the year was going through the National Gallery, viewing some masterful works whilst listening to another masterful work. Dark yet poetic, with no word spoken.

9.5/10

Hear - Mladic

Grimes - Visions

A refreshing entrance to the electronic pop scene, Grimes has an incredibly appealing sound. Visions has a beautiful array of textures, some pretty and some dark. On the whole it is a very good album, which could have been one of the best of the years was it not for one or two weaker songs. Nevertheless, Grimes gives an out of the world experience that may find you inadvertently dancing in public.

7.5/10

Hear - Genesis

Grizzly Bear - Shields

Indie folk band Grizzly Bear come back with another mesmeric album. As always, expect beautiful harmony and intrinsic use of instruments that let each song glide. Compared to previous albums, I would say this one is more lyrical and assertive. Although it won't set the world on fire Shields is another intelligent piece of work from one of the best bands performing at the moment.

8.0/10

Hear - Yet Again

JJ Doom - Keys to the Kuffs

An album brought off of Dooms own passport problems, he uses his birthplace London as his concept for this album. With the collaboration of producer Jneiro Jarel the beat glides well and does not obstruct Doom, who is back in his jaunty and expressive mood. It's easy to miss features from Blur's Damon Albarn and Portishead's Beth Gibbons, however that doesn't matter, this is about Doom doing what he does best.

7.5/10

Hear - Guv'nor

Kendrick Lamar - good kid, m.A.A.d city

Kendrick Lamar has got critical acclaim for this concept album. The power of the album lies in the understated beat that let Lamar rhyme without overcomplicating the music. In this sense, it is an album that old school hip-hop heads will appreciate. It includes a whole host of collaborations, however they are all artfully fit in to the mood of the song. There are no gimmicks, it is just Lamar telling his story.

8.5/10

Hear - Backstreet Freestylers

The Men - Open Your Heart

Loud and proud from Brooklyn are The Men. Open Your Heart has some good old fashioned punk with a new Brooklyn tenacity. Some songs make you sing your lungs out and jump around, others are more instrumental showcasing the varied talents of the musicians. I look forward to hearing more from these punk rockers.

7.5/10

Hear - Open Your Heart

Purity Ring - Shrines

Canadian duo Purity Ring have been one of my favourite discoveries of the year. The combination of heavy, mystical beats with lofty, eloquent vocals works perfectly throughout the album. Shrines has a majestic aura with a dark backdrop. With both members having youth on their side and this being their debut, I expect good things from them in the future. Hopefully they can push boundaries once more.

8.5/10

Hear - Fineshrines

Scuba - Personality

Berlin based British electronic producer Scuba has been transforming, in a market that is doing the same. When the beginning of an album claims a lack of originality these days you can become concerned. There is much tenacity in most tracks, which makes it surprising that the lead single "The Hope" has the least to offer. Nevertheless there is enough other great, less brutal tracks that give good substance to a great techno album.

7.5/10

Hear - If U Want

Tame Impala - Lonerism

Psychedelic Rockers' Tame Impala came out of the traps running on their debut album, and with Lonerism they look like they aren't prepared to stop. From the first song on Lonerism I was already hooked.  Tame Impala could have dropped their albums 30 years ago, or 30 years in the future and you would still have the same enjoyment. Lonerism uses strong synths, rocking drums and lofty vocals.

8.0/10

Hear - Feels Like We Only Go Backwards

XXYYXX - XXYYXX

First of all, its hard not to ignore the age of Marcell Everett. At only 17 years old he has no right to be on a top album of the year list. I did not know this fact until several listens of the album later. XXYYXX is a tenacious debut that grabs you from the first track. It is the perfect juxtaposition of sweet vocals with a heavy base (much like Purity Ring). Everett shows great multidisciplinary talent with many contrasting songs. Admittedly some songs on the album hide away from the light compared to other much stronger pieces. Nevertheless, even though he is so young, from the sound of the album you cannot call him raw. He seems to understand the intricacies and subtleties that are needed to make a great electronic album. 

8.5/10

Hear - About You

Nick Drake - Five Leaves Left (1969)

Another album that has been a massive influence on me, and many, many others in the music world. Nick Drake is now a well know artist these days, however it is easy to forget just how unknown and ignored he was in his day. In fact, from his suicide at only 20 years old, there was very little coverage, just like his albums. It was only years later, when great artists such as Paul Weller, REM and The Cure cite Nick Drake as a major influence.

This was the debut for little known english folk artist Nick Drake, who was the tender age of 20. However from his voice, arrangments and lyrics, you could mistake him for a wise old man. This album shows the prowess with the guitar, and many songs that can be construed from uplifting to chilling all at the same time. He truly was a marvel, and in his short time on earth he left some of the greatest music folk has ever witnessed.
Rating: 10/10

Hear ~ River Man

The Voice Project

Quick post for you to check out a great little movement called "The Voice Project". It used to be really smart where an artist would cover a song from one artist, who in turn cover another artist which continues in a chain.

However that broke down at some point (I blame Tom Waits), and now it seems like artists cover whatever they want. The aim is to raise awareness and use donations, sponsors and advertisers to support programs on the ground which aid in the peace, reconciliation and rebuilding efforts in Uganda, Africa.

So, please check them out, lots of artists, and here are my picks:

Jesca Hoop covers Bon Iver - Flume

Joan as Police Woman cover Broken Social Scene - Lover's Spit

Billy Bragg covers Joanna Newsom - On a Good Day

Kitten covers Cat Power - The Greatest

Best albums of 2010 (so far)

I am back, having gone missing for the past months due to my particle acceleration work for CERN, being trapped in a mine, and becoming a wedding planner for next year (I can't say who for). Well there is about as much music that has gone missing on this blog as their are pages of leaked war documents on the internet. So here is a quick round-up of the best albums of the year so far (if the title wasn't a give-away).


20. Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti - Before Today 7.5/10

19. Crystal Castles – Crystal Castles (II) 7.5/10

18. Efterklang - Magic Chairs 7.5/10

17. Big Boi - Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty 7.5/10

16. These New Puritans - Hidden 7.5/10

15. The Irrepressibles - Mirror Mirror 8.0/10

14. Sufjan Stevens- The Age of Adz 8.0/10

13. Holy Fuck - Latin 8.0/10

12. The Tallest Man on Earth – The Wild Hunt 8.0/10

11. Tame Impala -Innerspeak 8.0/10

10. Four Tet – There Is Love in You

Kieran Hebden produces one of his best yet, with another stunning masterpiece of electronic music. This may not break ground as some earlier work of his, however this holds as a much more solid album, and definitely deserving a place in my top 10.
8.0/10

9. Arcade Fire - The Suburbs


Is it better than their debut? For me, Funeral represents a more youthful and emotional time, which is not lost in parts of this album. This album is filled with hits however I believe the choice of track numbers was means you easily forget some stellar songs. Nevertheless, this is a must for the MP3 player.

8.0/10
Hear - Ready to Start

8. Titus Andronicus – The Monitor

This album screams out America. It will not be to everyone's taste, and some segments can seem to tedious, and sometimes the singer can whine into an almost self-pitying emo. However the album as a whole is a superb passionate punk tribute to the American Civil war and local heroes.

8.5/10

Hear - A More Perfect Union

7. Yeasayer - Odd Blood

I have already reviewed this album. Here

8.5/10


6. Gorillaz - Plastic Beach

Damon Albarn's Gorillaz produce a fascinating album with a cataclysm of classical, hip-hop, folk, jazz and several other music genres. Of course the success of the album is helped by the number of talented artists that are featured. Another ambitious album that gets its reward.

8.5/10

Hear - Melancholy Hills

5. Deerhunter – Halcyon Digest

I don't remember an album so capable of striking up imagery than this. Halcyon Digest has the ability to give you chills then wrap a blanket around you to keep warm. This is a band centred around the strangeness and genius of one Bradford Cox, who will continue to make remarkable music.

8.5/10

Hear - Desire Lines

4. Sleigh Bells - Treats

Fast-paced, hard-hitting and fucking loud, this is pop-rock noise at its finest. Sleigh Bells are the perfect combination of bitter sweet, with one half being a hardcore rocker, and the other being like something from disney. It is only fitting that they are signed to M.I.A's label, and you can certainly understand the direction taken. This is guaranteed to impress, however please take some steps before playing:

• Put your hood up
• Put some shades on
• Put the volume to the max

Enjoy.

8.5/10
Hear - Infinity Guitars

3. Laura Marling – I Speak Because I Can

Let's get the common compliments out the way - she was only 17 when she made her first album, and 19 for this one. That is astonishing. Forgetting all that, I Speak Because I Can is dark and astonishing. The album is covers love, responsibility and womanhood, passionately narrated making this such an emotional album.

8.5/10

Hear - Rambling Man

2. Beach House - Teen Dream


I must confess, I thought this album was released in 2009, and could compete with any from My Picks of 2009. Teen Dream is in essence, masterful. A beautifully formed selection of dream-pop tracks that hook you in from the first track, and you stay that way till the end. It does not need any bold dominant tracks to try and appeal to you. Beach House had a successful debut album, however that was just part of a learning curve to produce something that they can truly be happy with.

8.5/10
Hear - Zebra


1. Joannna Newsom - Have One On Me


Joanna Newsom's third album was for me the best album, however I accept it will not be everyone's. I disagree with several reviews suggesting that she has changed her style, as instead I believe she has added to her style, yet the album is still unmistakably Joanna Newsom. With a three-disk two-hour marathon of music, Have One On Me is as bold as Joanna Newsom herself, as not many would have done such a thing. Nevertheless, Joanna Newsom produces the most enchanting and magnificent collection of songs that take the listener on an adventure.

9.0/10

Hear - '81

February Round-Up

Well I am alive!! Did take a break from this for one reason or another. But I come back baring gifts... my top songs of the month. And there are some crackers. So lets get going!

Blood Red Shoes - Light It Up
Track Rating: 8/10
After my slight disappointment from their debut album, I didnt expect much from their return. However I am pleasantly suprised. First single from it is a screamer. Sweet sweet melody twisted into a grungy chorus and yells of Light It Up shows exactly why I liked this band so much before. It won't turn too many heads, however for those who were dissatified with their debut, including myself will find this a treat.
Hear

Chew Lips
8/10
Nice song from a band that were certain to dissapoint. Lead singer has a great voice, the song is simple yet good electropop throughout. It does reach a stage where a sudden surge of electro-awesomeness would take over, and the build up is great, but it continues into a delicate melody which is just as enjoyable. Raised my eyebrows in a good way.
Hear

Hot Chip - One Life Stand
7/10
At first listen I thought this was a bog-standard electro-pop song, from a far greater band. However in a way, this is what they were aiming for this, yet still have the dignity of a good band. It has a great bass riff throughout, however that is somewhat overpowered. The vocals are synthesised very cleverly, but the best thing about this song are the lyrics.
Hear

Imogen Heap - Hide and Seek (Roksonix Dubstep remix)
8.5/10
Not too sure when this remix came about, but it has got big for me in the past month. Imogen Heap's vocals from this song have become very well known due to being featured on Jason Derulo's song "Whatcha Say". However what Roksonix does to the tune is simply awesome. I have been catching up on a lot of dubstep, and I think this may be one of the best dubstep remixes around at the moment.
Hear

Joanna Newsom - Good Intentions Paving Company
9.5/10
Simply phenomenal. She has changed her style somewhat, yet this is still inrrefutably Joanna Newsom. A more upbeat song to someothers within the album, this is stunning throughout, from its harmony, chorus, lyrics and vocals. The song takes a melodical turn towards the end that you would not expect from her songs in the past, however this is her reformed, and it is simply breathtaking. It is a love song that is unashamed of itself, and has no right to be.
Hear

The Knife - Colouring of Pigeons
7.5/10
With a collaboration of who I don't remember, The Knife produce an opera-based album, which has split their fanbase somewhat. This is one of the best yet longest tracks of the two CD album. It is a soothing combination of several instruments from around the world, both modern and traditional. I admit I'm not exactly an opera expert, but from what I hear is a lovely track, very different from their older work. For an artist to totally change their style yet still produce rave reviews shows serious talent.
Hear

The Morning Benders - Excuses
7.5/10
A beatiful little song from a band that seems like pretty folk pop crossover. However this song does contain great melody a harmonised vocals, and contains a superb shift mid-song, which is why it gets to go on this list. The use of instruments during this song, and generally the album is very impressive.
Hear

Spoon - Is Love Forever?
8/10
Spoon have been possible the most consistently great bands of the last decade, just take a look at this metacritic article for proof. And this single is certainly an enjoyable start to the teenies, if thats what is going to be called? As you would expect from them, very clean riffs and clear vocals which really identify this band so well. Certainly they can't have another great decade can they? If this is anything to go by, why not!
Hear

Surfer Blood - Swim
7.5/10
Simple rifs with a 80s sound, catchy lyrics and a simple fun in the sun nature. It takes a slight turn in the bridge into a Vampire Weekendesque little intervas, which works very well. It can easily be mistaken for an 80s song, however it will certainly get you shouting the chorus.
Hear

Two Door Cinema Club - Undercover Martyn
6.5/10
It could easily be labelled a generic indie name and be done with, and possibly should, but I did enjoy this song. Its a sing-a-long marathon with an average harmony, but the whole song is held together by the chorus. Don't expect a tremendous amount from this song, but it is certainly worth a listen.
Hear

Jesca Hoop - Hunting My Dress (2009)

Rating: 8/10

Californian born Jesca Hoop has an interesting past, being raised in a mormon family, to stand against its beliefs and pursue a career in music. Her debut album "Kismet" gathered some praise from renounding artists including Tom Waits and Elbow. Her second album must show that Hoop has depth in her music, whilst still holding the magic that her sound seems to have.

The album starts with no introduction, but rather abruptly by a quick vocal harmony folowed directly into the song "Whispering Light". And a great song to start with, its enchanting like a Fiona Apple melody, mixed with some simple yet twisting guitar riff. The only dissapointment with this song is that the chorus doesnt hold you as much as it should, however the bridge does more than enough to make up for that.

Next song "The Kingdom" shows the delicate side of her voice, and it sounds stunning. At first I thought this would be a perfect song to end the album on, however the tune does take a turn which throughout is following her vocals. Lovely song, however I still do not think it fits in well here.

"Four Dreams" is a more upbeat song, with hints of chirpy bluegrass and 90s pop. A very enjoyable song with charming lyrics. Its easy to see why it was chosen as the first single.

We then get another stunning a magical song, "Angel Mom". From the high and beautiful vocals carrying a very deep meaning behind the song, its not hard to see why she has been compared to the likes of Kate Bush. The song consists of a slow build up into the stunning industrial chorus. Luke Murray Allen defines it well as having the subtle blend of two opposites: "industrial yet organic".

Then we get a darker tune in "Feast of the Heart". This song really seems like more of a rock band rather than a single female singer, however the dark sense to this song combined with her voice makes it a good listen as if in the midst of a Blonde Redhead track.

The rest of the album is alot more relaxed, without any strong tracks, however it seems like a more traditional folk album. What it does show perfectly is just how great her song-writing is. "Murder of Birds" is a good example of this, which sounds like poetry.

"Bed Across the Sea" has a strange combination the didgereedoo in the background giving it a weird atmosphere, which is broken from time to time by beautiful highs of her voice.

"Tulip" sounds more like a standard alternative-pop song, with another instrument used that at first wouldnt be considered, this time the electronic organ. It gives this song a mediterranean feel, however just like the previous song, I don't think it works too well. In fact I think it sounds like a Shakira B-side

However the final song, "Hunting My Dress" (doesnt take a detective to see where the album took its name from), is a stunning ballad. Deep meaning and sentimental lyrics, it is understandable why she wanted the album to be named after this.

All in all this album was impressive, and contains something for everyone. Jesca Hoop has been compared to several female artists, from Kate Bush to Bjork to Regina Spektor. I would say vocally, she has similarities to Australian Sarah Blasko, who you should really check out! Still, its easy to compare, however I don't believe it does her justice as she has her own style. Her style to me seems to be vocally led, with simple beats, subtle use of strings and piano which are hooked onto her voice. She has the tenacity to be experimental, which sounds incredible in some parts, and less so in others. As I have mentioned, I was not too impressed on how the tracks were arranged, which seems like very few songs fit in well together. However there are enough tracks to say this album is a great listen, and that is nearly all due to her superb imagination.


Hear - Money (okay its not on this album, but its the only official video I found of hers. And its a cracker)

January Round -Up

Okay so first month of 2010, thought I would do a roundup of my favourite songs out of the month. I must say, these songs have not necessarily been released in January 2010, as they may be a bit older or newer! But these are songs that I have picked up in the past month that are worth a mention.

Owen Pallett - Keep The Dog Quiet
Track Rating: 8/10
I fell in love with this song from the first listen. Throughout the song it has a consistent and very simple rhythm. It sounds perfectly orchestrated with the overlapping of string and brass throughout, which perfect fit around the catchy yet clever chorus.
Hear

Vampire Weekend - Cousins
9/10
Okay, so I may have been dissapointed by VWs new album, however this single is a cracker. It makes your feet tap from start to finish, and is probably the most different of all Vampire Weekend songs. Great vocals, cheeky lyrics and swift guitars, this song shows the best of the band.
Hear

Ke$ha - Tik Tok
6.5/10
An oversaturated market I would have thought, but apparantly not. Kesha is portrayed as a sexy naughty bitch, which I guess is to appeal to the teenage girl listeners to follow and relate to. Extremely catchy lyrics and chorus, unique vocals and a good happy-go-lucky beat, this song is on most peoples party playlist. Those who don't have this will be officially referred to as Party Poopers.
Hear

Yeasayer - Ambling Alp
7.5/10
This track is simply charming. Motivational lyrics that may be too quirky for some peoples liking, however they may forgive this for everything else that this song holds. Especially the great vocals and overall sound. Check out a whole album review here.
Hear

These New Purians - We Want War
8/10
Just like the band, this song is EPIC. A dark and sinister track which begins with huge drum blasts, keyboard and noise. However this 7-minute song develops into a beautifully orchestrated melee, with a perfect combination of high tones from choir, and lower tones from drums, along with brass to intertwine both elements. As I said, EPIC. Also done an album review here. Yay!
Hear

Delphic - Doubt
6.5/10
I hate Radio 1 and the BBCs power to say what artists, albums and tracks we should all go and purchase. Delphic were number 3 in this list. And soon after, they released this track. I think it sounds more like a mash-up of Hot-Chip with the Klaxons rather then anything as innovative as you may expect. Saying that, there is nothing wrong with the track and the band. It is simply an enjoyable listen, however does not make me want to go back for more. Don't Believe the Hype comes in mind.
Hear

Tindersticks - Keep you Beautiful
8/10
When I hear this track, I just wish it was summer and I was dazing in the warmth. As that is what it brings, warmth. This song could be easily mistaken for an old classic mowtown classic, and rightly so. A tender and beautiful song.
Hear

Four Tet - Love Cry
8.5/10
At over 9 minutes, it can be easy for a song to get boring, especially the repetition in dance tunes. This is somewhat repetitive, which is in fact something you wouldn't normally relate to Four Tet. However Love Cry is never boring. This song is the build up of chilled jazz percussion, sampled female vocals and clever interplay. Head bopping music, a great tune from a great DJ.
Hear

Los Campesinos! - There are Listed Buildings
8/10
I have to say, I think Los Campesinos! are quirky little indie-pop shits. However they must be doing something good, as they have magazines such as NME raving. At first I thought this song was a "Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly" cover of punk-rock song. However after a few more listens, I realise that this song is packed full of great lyrics, and are broken down by some complex are ever confusing guitar riffs. The chorus is actually not too bad either, its actually a breather for whats to come. All in all, this track impressed.
Hear

Liars - Scissor
7.5/10
Legends in the making Liars have got to keep up a significant reputation, so released this song early for their following album "Sisterworld". And with this song, they definately do deserve the reputation. It is creepy, dark and daunting, yet it has a Radioheadesque turn with heavy bass and soaring lead and vocals. However there is something missing from this song, which I think is that it does not show the tenacity that can be heard in previous records.
Hear

These New Puritans - Hidden (2010)

Rating: 8/10

These New Puritans are four young Thames-Estuary progressive rockers. With a good debut album, they aim for their second album, Hidden to hit 2010 with a bang. They do not disappoint.

Time Xone is like a simple overture for the rest of the album, with a classical arrangement that is very plain. However this is rudely interrupted by "We Want War", which begins with huge drum blasts, keyboard and noise. However this 7-minute song develops into a beautifully orchestrated melee, with a perfect combination of high tones from choir, and lower tones from drums, along with brass to intertwine both elements.

These New Puritans have always said that hip-hop has made a massive influence on their music, an this is evident throughout the album. "Three Thousand" exemplifies that, with a sort-of medieval twist to it. As weird as that sounds, thats the best to explain it. "Hologram" is a nice contrast, which is led by piano and the lead singers voice, which although is not perfect, works well.

The band then produce a song with an apt name for it, "Attack Music". The song can be dark and direct in parts, yet melodical in others, with stunning backing vocals. The next song "Fire-Power" highlights how the band tend to chant to the music, more than sing to it, similar to MIA. You will also notice the harmony from the introduction nestle in towards the end.

Again, this is interrupted with another heavy drummed symphony, "Orion". Its about time for another breather, with another brass arrangement in "Canticle". Yet again the moment of peace is soon over, with one of the heaviest songs on the album "Drum Courts - Where Corals Lie" with a tribal drum beat, simple orchestral arrangement, dark backing vocals and the typical TNPS chanting. This song gives the imagery of a montage in an epic ancient war film, where the soldiers are marching to their deaths. I'm sure I have heard it in one of those terrible films.

"White Chords" is a melodic song that penultimately ends the album. It is alot more harmonic and relaxing, with a euphoric chorus and sing-along lyrics. The last song "5" seems to be an answer to the introduction. Another instrumental piece, this one is alot lighter and magical. It includes a choir who chant to the harmony of "Time Xone".

This album is can be called many words, but ironically none of them are "Hidden". It is spectacular in some instances, which is helped by the band knowing exactly what they want from this album. It gives a bold start for 2010, just like "Vektamist" and "Merriweather Post Pavillion" did for 2009. This album will not become a mainstream success, as it contains more dark, tribal hits rather than some other artists, however I have to say to those who listen to this album, my jaw did that too.

Hear - "We Want War"

Black Cab Sessions

If you havn't heard or seen them before, then these videos will be a treat!
Black Cab Sessions kind of explain themselves. One song performance by musicians, recorded on the back of a black cab in London and New York, for the viewing pleasure of us internet layabouts.
They have grabbed some great artists in their time, and below are my picks:

Alela Diane
Bon Iver
Dawn Landes
Death Cab for Cutie
Fleet Foxes
Grizzly Bear
Lightspeed Champion
Lykke Li
The Maccabees
Mumford and Sons
The New Pornographers
Noah and the Whale
Scout Niblett
St.Vincent

Yeasayer - Odd Blood (2010)

Rating: 8.5 / 10

It has been nearly three years since Yeasayer's debut album, but it seems like they have used this time very wisely. After a long wait, new album Odd Blood certainly does not dissapoint.

With a dark, deep and peculiar intro song, "The Children", the next song "Ambling Alp" is a complete contrast, with an upbeat tempo and lyrics to match. This is the first single from the album, however it is by far not the best.

The album then takes a more docile turn with the song "Madder Red", which seems to fit more with their first album. It is a bit more 80s pop revival than some may like, which then leads to a more MGMTesque anthem in "I Remember". Here we start to see just what Yeasayer are about, with complex musical arrangements, great vocals and a lot of passion in what they do.

All of sudden we get a total different side to their music, with one of the most energetic songs on the album, "The One", which in typical music of our day, compliments the past in pop. It has a sort of 80s Hollywood movie feel to it, with 90s vocals all complimented with a great hook.

The next song certainly cannot be called pop music. The intro to "Love Me Girl" can be very misleading to the listener, for me it seemed like the start of a Pendulum song. Instead we get a song that seems to have elements of 90s House music, garage and more recently dubstep, all complimented with great vocals that make the song refreshing, and very addictive. "Rome" is a less serious song, with a quirky melody and hints of funk. The song is broken down at periods with clever percussions. However in all it is similar to "Ambling Alp" as being a good single, but doesn't really expose Yeasayers experimental side.

"Strange Reunions" sounds like a caleidoscopic Eastern-Indie mix, similar to that of their debut album. This song is in stark contrast to the quicker tempo song "Mondegreen", which seems to have been a very complicated ensemble of instruments all to have been played at a higher bpm then that was supposed to. This is where we see their experimental side try to take over the music, which is unfortunate.

The final song "Grizelda" however is the perfect ending to an album of this sort. It sounds like a strange mash-up of The Dirty Projectors and MGMT, however it works incredibly well. The melody and vocal are both spellbouding, and makes this final song a suitable encore for the album.

It is true that generally this album can be called more high tempo, upbeat and danceable, however this does not do justice to just what has improved for Yeasayer since the debut album. Being an experimental band, from taking their interest in so many sounds, they seem to have finally found the right formula, and created something very special. Dare I say it, I myself have been a sceptic of bands such as MGMT and Vampire Weekend, however the new Yeasayer album seems to show just how to do it. Kudos

Hear - Ambling Alp (single)

La Blogotheque...

La Blogotheque is a great french website devoted to discussion, interviews and best of all, live music videos of some great artists from around the alt/folk world.

The live sessions (called Soirée de poche) are the best I have seen, held in some obscure venues in France, and are filmed by Vincent Moon, a french filmaker who makes it such a great experience.

Check out these great sessions, believe me, you won't be disappointed:

The Dodos

Kings of Convenience

Beirut

St.Vincent & Andrew Bird

The Walkmen

Bon Iver

There are a few more, but these are my favourites.
Enjoy!

Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)

Rating: 9.5/10

One thing I wanted to do through this blog was to expose albums that I have been brought up by that have made changed me. And from that, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was hands down the first I wanted to discuss.

So a bit of background on this young lady at the time. Lauryn was going through a torrential time with partners in the infamous group The Fugees. In fact when Lauryn proposed to the band that she were to do a solo album, there was little support from the group, including the father to her future child, Wyclef Jean.

However, it was afflictions such as above that pushed her to produce a solo album. Miseducation was to be made as a personal diary to her, expressing deep emotions on situations that were also affecting young black americans during this period. Lauryn was in fact the humble narrator, enfused with her own personal dilemmas. However this album was not a simple heart-on-sleave representation on Lauryn's life, in fact, it was the opposite.

One of the greatest addictions to this album is its positive perspective on the individual. Lyrically, the album is so succint, that it seems no number of political advisors could redraft what is said as well as Lauryn did, when she spoke her truth. She does not back away from any subject, from abortion and politics, to love and betrayal.

Also from the appeal of Lauryn came some great support in making this record, from internationally known artists such as D'Angelo, Mary J Blige and Carlos Santana. However even they could not overshaddow the clear talent that was expressed by Lauryn Hill who. with or without some exceptional production, excelled.

What is so great about this album is that I truly believe that anyone, no matter what background, can find strong relevance. Miseducation expresses where Lauryn's emotion and devotions in life are, to the extent of carrying us into her world. For me, this album could often not be left on the shelf for a few months, but if I were to be asked "what would be the most influential album in your life?", well you get the point!

Hear - To Zion

Vampire Weekend - Contra (2010)

Rating: 7/10

Vampire Weekend hit the music world with a fascinating debut album, pulling together sounds from all corners of the world. Two years after the debut, their second album Contra arrives with some anticipation. Does it deliver?

Well that depends on what you are looking for from this band. From their debut album, it had a mix of superb individual songs that could either be heard at a party full of the pretentious, or whilst your sipping your frapomapocapochino in the cafe. Superb as those songs were, I don't believe the new album has any to rival with that. So in that sense, no it does not deliver.

However, if your needing a good album to add to your extensive collection, then this is a great choice. Contra is full of charming melodies, that keep it a very entertaining album. However after a while, you may find yourself wanting more from this album. Just like the previous album, it is short, and seriously lacks depth. Hopefully we will see it in their next one, fingers crossed they have more to offer.

Hear - Cousins

Guardian Article: What has the digital decade meant for music?

A very good READ, describing the effects of the digital age for music, bringing both positive and adverse effects to all musicians. However it seems the digital age wouldn't have hit the fat cats as much as we would percieve
If only Neutral Milk Hotel waited 10 years...

My Picks of 2009

Well its a new year and decade

2009 saw the exposure of dubstep to the world, where it got hyped till it got bitten on the ass. New Weird America got a morgage and matured somewhat. MJ died, which led to a great leap in plays for him, exposing it to youngsters who otherwise wouldnt have given it a chance. Whilst there was a fling with hip-hop and commercial dance in the past, 2009 was a proper love fest, with a lot of vomit coming at the later stages of each songs life cycle. With a lot of new music to look forward to, I thought it might be good to sum up for me the great albums of the past year.

1. St.Vincent - Actor


Before you read on, there is something I must confess. I may have a small crush on St.Vincent singer Annie Clark. However listening to her records over and over again, and seeing her live twice, it is understandable why I have a crush on her. I also did meet her at one of the live shows, whilst she was trying to flee to the ladies toilets. But I digress. After a very good first album, Annie Clark stuck herself in a small apartment in New York armed with recording equipment, to come with this astonishing collection of songs. She admits herself that movies were her main inspiration whilst writing this album. And this is evident when listening to Actor. Every songs seems to hold alot of emotion which is echoed into some beautiful yet venomous lyrics. However this offsets from Annie's clear, tone perfect voice, which seems to let the harmony take over her pieces. Its an album full of perfect contradictions and powerful ballads that take your mind into the movies.

Hear - Marrow

2. The Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca

This truly was a great year for New York's experimental rock band, The Dirty Projectors. Their music is as hard to describe as an ameoba's facial expression. The best I can do is to say it is a mix superb guitar riffs, stunning male and female vocals, and written by someone who just found out the purpose of dark energy yet is reluctant to confess. This album ripped away all text books on how music should be written, and created something fresh and very inviting.

Hear - Stillness is the Move

3. Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

Another New York Artist! Must have been a great year for that area! Merriweather Post Pavilion has been cited in most critics top lists of 2009, and is easy to understand why. Animal Collective have produced some great albums in the past, however this one I believe tops them by a reasonable distance. The wonderment and structured waywardness makes it understandable why it has been comparable to the great Brian Wilson.

Hear - My Girls


4. Grizzly Bear - Vektamist


Okay so four of the top five on this list are from New York, this is getting ridiculous. However the Grizzly's third album was always going to be up there. Although personally I have a little love affair with their second album, this new ensemble is seen to fine tune some areas where they were criticised for in the past. Nonetheless this is not patchwork of older work, this album brings new energy and exhilaration into their music, with intelligient and innovative techniques that make this such an enjoyable listen.

Hear - Two Weeks (unofficial video, it's ten times as good)


5. Alela Diane - To Be Still


From California, 2009 saw Alela Diane's comeback from her debut, and boy can she sing. This folk album brings out the best in Alela's pallette. Her style consists of warm vocals, imaginative lyrics and relaxed harmonies. There are no issues of overcomplication with her work, she made this a simple yet beautiful listen for 2009.


Hear - White as Diamonds



Others honourable alums of the past year:

Marissa Nadler - Little Hells
The XX- The XX
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx pt 2
Alessi's Ark - Notes From The Tree House
Real Estate - Real Estate
Regina Spektor - Far
Blue Roses - Blue Roses