Since we’re at the halfway point for the year, I figured I’d throw out there what albums have inspired multiple listens. These are in no particular order. Go past the tweet reviews, and check out the Spotify playlist that has all the albums for easy access/enjoyment. What did I miss and should check out?
Grimes “Visions” – Swirling with magic in the form of beats and pixie vocals. I’m amazed how well this album works. Infinitely creative.
Schoolboy Q “Habits and Contradictions” – Dirty, dark, and strangely beautiful. It feels very intimate, making it a fascinating late night listen.
Craig Finn “Clear Heart, Full Eyes” – A small, Texas record from the lead singer of The Hold Steady. Feels like driving to Austin.
Jack White “Blunderbuss” – Best album since The White Stripes days. He makes it seem so easy, that you always expect more. But the best moments are in his restraint.
Alabama Shakes “Boys and Girls” – Like many, I thought the lead singer was a man the first time I heard it. Sticks to you like humidity in the best way possible.
Japandroids “Celebration Rock” – Album about being young, drinking, and hanging out with friends? Yes please!
Delta Spirit “Delta Spirit” – Really great alternative rock/pop record. They would have opened up for REM back in the day instead of Toad The Wet Sprocket. And been more entertaining.
Tanlines “Mixed Emotions” – Synth pop done right. Feels like standing in the hot sun if you stayed up all night to see it.
The Men “Open Your Heart” – Keeping good rock alive. More depth than I expected.
The Shins “Port Of Morrow” – Quintessentially Shins, but love the Danger Mouse influence. Makes for my fav Shins album yet.
Perfume Genius “Put Your Back N 2 It” – Sadness drips off each note soaking the heart with warmth. Powerful.
Sleigh Bells “Born To Lose” – Not as high energy as the first, but better lyrics. Fav cover of the year.
Lotus Plaza “Spooky Action at a Distance” – Indie shoe-gazing with crisp, shiny guitars.
Spiritualized “Sweet Heart Sweet Light” – Velvet Underground influenced gospel epic jams. Uplifting.
Sinead O’Connor "How About I Be Me (And You Be You)" – Lots of female artists try to be her (Fiona Apple) but she remains the master of raw female angst. Best work in decades.
Bobby Womack “The Bravest Man In The Universe” – Not a throwback album. It is rooted in today’s sound, and Bobby’s voice brings weight to heart’s regrets that only a living legend could.
Hot Chip “In Our Heads” – If only every moment in life could be as joyful as this album. I’d join their cult of sunny beats in a heartbeat.
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