week of february 9th
Uniform Motion
One of my favorite releases of this week, Uniform Motion’s Life has the melancholiness of an Iron & Wine record, with some other Grizzly Bear-esque sounds, and harmonies that are truly gorgeous to listen to. Definitely pick this one up.
Bluebrain
This rock band closely reminds me of Frightened Rabbit. Fun, funky music with some tunes that you can definitely dance to, if one were so inclined.
www.myspace.com/bluebrainbluebrain
Fanshaw
This female-led group (again from Canada) has an interesting sound. With vocals that waver in a ghostly manner, the sound is truly haunting, in a good way!
A Broken Consort
This album, released by Richard Skelton, who’s name refers to a group made of instruments from different ‘families’ (strings and wind instruments for example) is a calm instrumental record. A lot of great string parts do appear, combining very relaxing and tense sounds at well crafted moments. Crow Autumn is worth a listen.
www.myspace.com/abrokenconsort
Courtney Wing
Courtney has just released Bouquet of Might and Fury. Another Canadian songwriter, he uses an incredible orchestra to support his folk sound, which creates many amazing sounds on this record. His vocals had to grow on me a bit, but the music is amazing either way.
Daphne Willis
If you are a fan of the Ingrid Michaelson/Adele/Duffy type of vibe, you might dig Daphne. While I like the latter artists, I couldn’t get into Daphne as much, but some of you might dig this record.
Jarrod Dickenson
I’m a little biased since Jarrod is from here in Austin. He got some great guys to play on this album, and it has turned into an excellent independent release. A nice singer/songwriter/country/folk album.
Meg Hutchinson
Meg is no stranger to the world of folk. She is a great songwriter, and The Living Side is a great grab.
Pat LePoidevin
Another Canadian singer/songwriter who typically performs by himself with a loop pedal. Nothing truly new or anything you haven’t heard, but it’s worth a listen. Mandolins and banjos abound, and the lyrics bring back some childhood memories.
http://www.myspace.com/patlepoidevin
Laura Gibson & Ethan Rose
A small, quiet project between two artists. Laura provides the vocals and Ethan creates the sounds. This will easily put you to sleep, but it is a beautiful combo of talent. Listen to Bridge Carols and put it on tonight.
http://www.myspace.com/bridgecarols
Yeasayer
A great band with a great new album. They have a cool sound, and I’m excited this is finally releasing. Not to mention they’ll be playing Austin real soon. Catch these guys live, it’s worth every penny.
