New Music

Since I shared some old favourites in the first post, I thought I'd highlight some current stuff that I'm listening to.

Belle & Sebastian - The Life Pursuit. A great album, perhaps their best. I love how they've incorporated their own sound with a 60's soul sound. What you get is something very reminiscent of some early '80's British music (which itself was infuenced by the 60's soul sound); The Beat, Joe Boxers, early Style Council, or Punch The Clock era Costello. I truly regret not seeing their show last month with The New Pornographers, but after seeing them at Massey Hall in 2003, I felt I would be dissapointed with a show at The Docks. Sometimes venue is everything!

For The Price of a Cup of Tea

also Another Sunny Day (from the Matador Records website)

Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins - Rabbit Fur Coat. I seem to have missed out on much of the American indie scene. I try to be aware of new bands in Canada, and I usually know what's happening in the UK though Mojo and Uncut, but the US remained unknown to me. Rilo Kiley is one of those bands that was unaware of but, from reading other blogs, one I should be listening to. This year has seen side projects from two RK members; guitarist Blake Sennet's band The Elected, and singer Jenny Lewis' album Rabbit Fur Coat. Lewis moves away from alt rock and into alt.country territory, with great success. Her delicate voice is well suited to the sound, reminds me of Neko Case.

You Are What You Love (From the Team Love Records website, where most of the album is available for download.)

Neko Case - Fox Confessor Brings The Flood. How was that for a segue? Many of you would recognize Neko Case as the female lead of The New Pornographers, but that's just a side gig for her, she has a career in her own right. This is her fourth album, and some are saying her best. I haven't heard it all yet, so I cannot comment. I like what I've heard, and I just love her voice.

Star Witness
Hold On, Hold On (both from the ANTI Records website)

Destroyer - Destroyer's Rubies. Dan Behar is another contributor to The New Pornographers, but like Ms. Case, he has a day job: Destroyer. Destroyer's Rubies is an eclectic album, quite tuneful at times, but not always an easy listen. This is another album that has drawn raves, and I think it's one that will grow on me after repeated listens. I'll get back to you.

European Oils

Cat Power - The Greatest. Never judge a CD by it's cover. When I first saw the cover for Cat Power's last album, You Are Free, I thought it was a home made disc. While the cover for The Greatest looks more professional, it is even less appealing. Artwork aside, The Greatest is a fine album. Recorded in Memphis as an homage to the southern music she (Chan Marshall) grew up with, the album features musicians that worked with the likes of Al Green, Etta James and Albert Collins in the 70's & 80's. It comes across as a mellow soul, but intospective and honest.

Living Proof

also The Greatest (from the Matador Records website)

By the way, if you like The Greatest, you can vote for it on CBC's National Playlist. Check it out here.