Friday 8 October 2021

Short Attention Span Record Reviews, Oct 2021

BADBADNOTGOOD – Talk Memory
Goodgoodnotbad. (7)

BRANDI CARLILE – In These Silent Days

This Highwoman’s new solo album reminded me of k.d. lang, and it’s not just because they’re both gay. (8)

LAURA JANE GRACE – At War With Silverfish

If you’re not already sick and tired of stripped-down lockdown EPs here’s another one, from Against Me’s leader and punk rock icon Laura Jane. Songs are kept short and sweet and are depressing in a cathartic sort of way. (7)

ILLUMINATI HOTTIES – Let Me Do One More

Music critics somehow love this, even though it mostly sounds like the 00’s pop-punk music critics hated back in the day. (8)

KATATONIA – Mnemosynean

A collection of non-album tracks by one of the best metal bands around, a must for fans despite the fact that most of these songs were left off the albums for a reason. (7)

THE RECORD COMPANY – Play Loud

Black Keys meets INXS. (7)

ESPERANZA SPALDING – Songwrights Apothecary Lab

Songs for healing and meditation, a weird exercise combining jazz with neuroscience and psychology. (7)

STRAND OF OAKS – In Heaven

A bit too loud for the “indie folk” label this guy has been carrying around. (7)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Country Funk Volume III 1975-1982

The title says it all really, 17 nuggets of southern deep-fried goodness featuring some household names (Dolly Parton, JJ Cale, Tony Joe White…) and a strong supporting cast. (8)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – I’ll Be Your Mirror: A Tribute To The Velvet Underground & Nico

As if anyone needed proof that VU’s debut album is the cornerstone of all indie rock that followed, here’s a tribute featuring everyone who’s anyone in that particular universe, from Michael Stipe to Kurt Vile. As is usually the case with cover versions, those who take the greatest risks reap the greatest rewards. (8)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – I’m A Freak Baby 3: A Further Journey Through The British Heavy Psych And Hard Rock Underground Scene 1968-1973

Another excellent 3-CD compilation of proto-metal Neanderthals, known and unknown. This one goes to (11)

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