Some Albums I’ve Been Listening To.
Thanks to everyone who came out to The Bottletree last night for the show. We were excited to see so many people there and also excited to share some of the new music with you. It was a wonderful evening and we’ll do it again soon for sure.
I finally got to go to Laser’s Edge today for the first time in a while. I’m sure I’ll head back in soon to go through their stuff and see if there’s anything I can purchase before they close their doors. Fred, good luck with your next journey, even if you don’t know what it is yet… I was hoping to find the new Ryan Bingham but I was unlucky this time. I did pick up these albums. Some are older but all were released this year. Here’s my thoughts on them.
1. Wincing The Night Away - The Shins
Wow. I’ve always be hesitant of The Shins. Why? Probably because they seem like a cool-kid band but even if they are, I’m a fool for staying away from them this long. It seems like these little folk songs are fresh and upbeat. A very well written album and one of the best I’ve heard this year. Seriously, listen to “Phantom Limb” and you’ll understand the depth and talent of this band. I’m always afraid of bands on Sub Pop but this year The Shins, Iron & Wine, and The Thermals (thank you Jacob) have totally impressed me and I’m starting to see why they’re one of the most influential labels in the industry today.
2. Washington Square Serenade - Steve Earle
Two Words: Drum Loops. Yeah, I was sad too. That being said, there are some shining moments on this album and I’m glad I have it with my collection of Steve Earle. I highly suggest listening to “Steve’s Hammer (For Pete)” and “Days Aren’t Long Enough” and then adding the album to your collection. I consider those songs to be classic Steve Earle songs. I mean, it’s Steve Earle. As for the drum loops, I’m not against them when used in the right place but these seem a little forced. For example, the closing track, “Way Down In The Hole” is just a mistake. This great gospel song about keeping the devil away ruined by a cheesy and cringe-worthy drum loop. Listen to it and see if you can get past the loop. I’m on my 6th listen trying to get around it but I can’t.
3. Self-Titled - Tim O’Reagan
First of all, I absolutely love The Jayhawks so I was really excited to get this album. O’Reagan is/was the drummer and one of the founding members of The Jayhawks and if you don’t know who they are I really feel sorry for you. They are one of the best American bands in the past 20 years and one of my all-time favorites (just get Rainy Day Music and you’ll know what I’m talking about). So, how is O’Reagan’s first solo release (out on Lost Highway)? One word: Solid. He’s not afraid to push his musical boundaries and listener’s expectations (”These Things” and “Plaything”) and also not afraid to deliever some of the catchy country-esque songs that I expect (”Black & Blue” and “That’s The Game”). If you’re a fan of The Jayhawks this is a must have and if you’re a fan of great music… well, this is a must have. From start to finish this is a solid album.
I’ll probably be in radio silence for a week because I’m going to be out of town on vacation… yeah, I know it’s an odd time for vacation but it’s going to be nice.
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the show at bottletree was an absolute blast. I was happy we had such a crowd. and it was great to hear you with a band, jon.
definitely, something to do again.
re: lasers edge. come on out on december 11. the spots are playing an instore there from 7-9pm.
I guess you’ll have to feel sorry for me. I’ve never heard the Jayhawks. I’ll check it out now, though.
On the other hand, I have heard the Shins, and they are very good. I like the cd, although I haven’t had a chance to listen to it much lately. Now that I have a Zune, I’ll remedy that.