Hello there blog, it’s been a while. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to neglect you.
It has been an incredible six months for new albums. I feel excited for the future of music. There has been a definite shift in the general music scene during the last year or two. There are so many wonderful musicians that are changing that landscape by simply being authentic. They’re not thinking out of the box – they were never in a box to begin with.
This is by no means a ‘best of’ list. It’s simply a list of albums (in no particular order) that I’ve connected to on some level and enjoyed listening to for whatever reason, be it catchy, creative, different, classic. I’ve embedded a song or two from each album as a taster (if you’re reading this on email, go to the blog on the web to see the videos). Let me know what you’ve been listening to or what you think of the selection in the comments section.
Clubfeet – Heirs and graces
I am so in love with this entire album. It’s such a lovely listen with so much power. This group from Melbourne and Cape Town have so much talent and potential. Watch out – they’re going to be BIG!
Foals – Holy Fire
Amazing album, one that will be a classic in 5 years. Innovative and different.
The National – Trouble will find me
What I like to call mainstream indie – appealing to most mainstream radio listeners. That doesn’t mean that they’ve sold out! This album is something special. It’s hard to put your finger on it but I felt it the first time I heard it.
Tegan and Sara – Heartthrob
The 7th studio album from the Canadian indie pop rock duo has taken a new direction, away from their classic, emotional, sometimes dark, always quirky breakup songs and closer to mainstream pop (I see them as genre-less with (on this album) classic pop influences). In my opinion Tegan and Sara will never be pure mainstream pop, but with this album they may just start influencing pop as much as pop has influenced them). This is by far their most commercially viable album yet. It’s poppy, sexy fun but it’s still quintessential Tegan and Sara. It’s intelligent pop, a closer look at the lyrics reveals what are probably harder hitting lyrics than any of their previous work. I for one applaud them for stepping out of their comfort zone. It’s layered and some may argue that there’s a few layers too many. They have received as much flack as praise for this album but they seem to be accessing and inspiring an entire new audience while keeping most of the diehard fans happy. This is no small feat for a band that’s been in the industry for 14 years. I realise that may be biased with this one because these two can do no wrong in my books. I believe that they the most entertaining, well rounded live act in the world and this album will be amazing live (their shows focus on them as people by way of their onstage funny and articulate storytelling and their incredible musical abilities, it is not a big unnecessary production designed to distract you from holes in the music and/or lack of personality). If you’re not a Tegan and Sara fan yet, I hope that the Quin twins win you over on this one.
Paramore – Paramore
The latest album from emo pop band Paramore contains elements of funk, rock and pop. If you’re looking for an album to get you out of bed and into the gym on a winter’s morning, this is it. I love to belt out their hits at the top of my voice in the car, awesome stress relief. Perfect, fun album.
Vampire Weekend – Modern Vampire in the City
I haven’t connected with all the songs on this album (yet) but I love the fresh sound and feel of this album. What I like about it is that it has a kind of old school feel to it that I can’t quite place.
Phoenix – Bankrupt!
France’s Phoenix is finally back with their 5th Studio album. Lots of energy and colour. This is an album that will grow on you, you need to give it a few listens! Phoenix never disappoints, just stay with them.
OneRepublic – Native
OneRepublic’s third studio album has something for everyone. “Native” is a bit more laid back than some of their previous work. The album is one strong track after another. An easy listen with a fresh and smooth sound that will cater for most audiences.
Hurts – Exile
What I love about this band is how much they remind me of one of my all-time favourite bands, Erasure. Enough said. Great album that will not disappoint!
City and Colour – The Hurry and the Harm
Canadian Dallas Green is back and making girls swoon with his luscious, dreamy vocals. One of my all-time favourite artists. Every album, every song is brilliant and this is no exception. His music has an instant calming effect on me.
These albums very almost made the list (but I haven’t really been listening to them long enough yet) They are also worth checking out.
Imagine Dragons – Night Visions
Joshua Radin – Wax Wings
Tom Odell – Long Way Down
Daft Punk – Random Access Memories
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