I know the picture along with this is for someone hitchhiking, but honestly, you’re going to want to go on a drive and listen to everything from this week. It’s an INCREDIBLE week of releases.
Let’s do this!
Superchunk – What a Time to Be Alive
What a time indeed! This band has been going at it for almost 30 years now and everyone knows them as indie rock legends, but this album takes them political and it’s incredible. It’s poppy, it’s punky, it’s sharp, and it’ll cut ya (especially if you’re the president). Even though the title of this album is laden with sarcasm, it is.
Favorite tracks: “What a Time to Be Alive” & “Lost My Brain”
I’m with Her – See You Around
Before you open this one up expecting a politically fueled arsenal of songs, it’s not. They coined the name long before Hillary did and the three ladies slay in the folky/bluegrass/string scene. At 12 songs and 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a night of dancing or to relax heading into the weekend. It’s a gorgeous album with some of the best harmonies coming out of 2018 so far.
Favorite tracks: “Waitsfield” & “Crescent City”
U.S. Girls – In A Poem Unlimited
This one’s got an interesting mix of classic ’60s rock, disco, and a dreamy synthpop ruminations. And the best part about it is the fact that none of them sound alike at all. It’s such a wildly diverse album, and with Meg Remy at the helm, you know you’re in safe hands.
Favorite tracks: “Time” & “Pearly Gates”
Satan’s Satyrs / Windhand – Split
If you read the name of the two bands on this album and thought to yourself, “this is going to be light an airy,” you need to re-evaluate some things… It’s the heaviest of the week and some of the strongest doom/sludge metal of the year. If you’re a fan of old school Ozzy, this’ll tickle your fancy. Prepare for one track coming in at almost 14 minutes. And the closing track is possibly the coolest mix of rock, blues, and doom that I’ve ever heard.
Favorite tracks: “Three Sisters” & “Ain’t That Lovin’ You, Baby”
Pianos Become The Teeth – Wait for Love
Call it post-hardcore, power-rock, or maybe even a pinch of emo, but whatever it is, it’s a strong showing. And most likely, their most commercial album thus far. The entire album is hauntingly beautiful with an expansive sound that engulfs your mind and body. Prepare for beauty and stay for the journey.
Favorite tracks: “Charisma” & “Dry Spells”
Happy Accidents – Everything But the Here and Now
Welcome to feel-good UK indie punk, you’re going to like it here. With super strong writing, dueling male/female vocals, and catchy as all get out lyrics, this one will get a lot of folks toe-tapping along. If you were a fan of their previous album, You Might Be Right, this one offers even more energy and diversity.
Favorite tracks: “Act Naturally” & “Unwind”
Senses Fail – If There Is Light, It Will Find You
If you’re angry about life, politics, or anything really, put this on and prepare to find yourself nodding with the lyrics. It’s been three years since their last release and it’s mellowed them out a bit. If you’re looking for the screaming vocals of the past, it’s not here, but I, for one, am happy for the departure and will be listening to this one all weekend.
Favorite tracks: “Orlando and a Miscarriage” & “Gold Jacket, Green Jacket…”
Felix Jaehn – I
This is young German DJ and producer has released his debut album and it’s a beast. The double CD, with 25 songs at an hour and sixteen minutes, is incredible. If you’re looking for something to dance the weekend away to, this is literally the only album you need. Most likely the biggest album of the week in more ways than the track list.
Favorite tracks: “Bonfire” & “Don’t Say Love”
See you next week!
