just wanted to post up some sweet tunes that I’ve been listening to over the last month or two. some different styles, so there’s a little something for everyone.
Greg Laswell – Three Flights From Alto Nido
definitely one of my fav’s of the whole year. intricate, atmospheric, fantastic vocals. my top tracks are: #4, “Comes and Goes (in Waves)”; #8, “I’d be Lying”; and I think the best song on the album: #11 “And Then You”.
Common Market – Tobacco Road
besides Optimus Rhyme, these guys are my favorite seattle hip-hop artists. check them out if you like hip-hop with a message beyond cash, big wheels, and women of ill repute. super talented.
Joshua James – Fields & Floods
james is someone I never get tired of listening to. thoughtful storytelling, a unique voice, and a truly gifted musician. all his albums are great, but this one has some Christmas tracks on it, which makes it THAT much cooler. good folk music + Christmas = sweeter than santa.
Joshua Radin – Simple Times
generally happy music, but not saccharine-sweet like some music. just right. I like track #1, “One of These Days”. i think it hits home for people who’ve loved and lost.
Matt Pond PA – Last Light
not really a new album, but it never gets old. the guy can write some brilliant lyrics. he does a great job at avoiding clichés, and really evoking some emotions and tangible imagery. if #2, “People Have a Way” doesn’t get your head bobbing and your feet tapping … you’ve probably flat-lined.
William Fitzsimmons
thanks to Kristy’s blog, I checked this album out, and promptly became obsessed. and that was before I heard the banjo. incredible hushed, urgent vocals, with lyrics that are obviously held close to fitzsimmon’s heart. sort of a somber album, but in a very good way. this is music for your soul. #4, “If You Would Come Back Home”, does it for me.
Underoath – Lost in the Sound of Separation
probably too heavy/hard for most people, but this album is a perfect evolution of Underoath’s music. I like how they’ve fleshed out their sound, and managed to grow their message, too.