Release ID | Artist Name | Release Name | Release Rating | Review | Spotify Link | Year | Style | Style 1 | Style 2 | Genre | Genre 1 | Genre 2 | Discogs URL | Videos 1 | Videos 2 | Videos 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9753136 | D∆WN | Infrared | 2 | D∆WN - Infrared Post-Blackheart I have high expectations for any Dawn Richard release but they aren’t met here; especially surprising given this is produced by Kingdom whose production is too bloated for her style. Gone is Dawn’s clever lyricism from Blackheart which was at times abstract, metaphorical and personal. Infrared is thematically promising but never really goes anywhere. | 2017 | RnB/Swing | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/DWN-Infrared/release/9753136 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fwTBtizw4Q | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqvo72bMLNU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6Kf55y7WQk | ||||
| 10514404 | Toro Y Moi | Boo Boo | 3 | I have major respect for chaz's diverse and prolific output, he's always pushing himself in a new direction. The few things I've actively listened to in the past haven't held me but I like this album: hip, poppy electro with a loner vibe. | 39dY6cEFXDEevnfUTzp6lZ | 2017 | Synth-pop | Electronic | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Toro-Y-Moi-Boo-Boo/release/10514404 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rPOuZ4vY50 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fg7r4kQUbPw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=huA5-ViXEoo | ||
| 2496677 | Everything But The Girl | Idlewild | 2 | A varied album of what I think of as adult contemporary. The use of a drum machine on some tracks I thought hampered the preciousness and authenticity that hangs around the rest of the album. Consistent with the rest of their catalog there are standout pop tracks with beautiful lyrics to be found but I prefer other albums of theirs. | 3GhOahAXfC5V87uwTkK75T | 1988 | Pop Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Everything-But-The-Girl-Idlewild/release/2496677 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IttYGmIOtQY | ||||||
| 9597471 | Lance Skiiiwalker | Introverted Intuition | 3 | Talented dude: natural knack for songwriting and I love the production. The lyrical content needs work, felt juvenile (or am I just getting old? I accept that) and the radio concept could've used refining; felt like filler. I plan to revisit this further and keep an eye on his future, looks bright. | 13C30kWn3adStm5xj0Oj8b | 2016 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Lance-Skiiiwalker-Introverted-Intuition/release/9597471 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 11613072 | A.A.L. (Against All Logic) | 2012 - 2017 | 4 | Great record. I've been a big fan of Nicolas jaar since his BBC Essential mix (I'll express my appreciation for the essential mix in a separate post but I found it life changing (seriously)). At the time his other mixes were distinctly different and catered more to the dance floor. The tracks on these mixes seemed to be little more than a tasteful vocal sample, after laughter comes tears for example, with bass and rhythm mixed in. Another element I've appreciated of his is the slightly off-tempo drum lines which add a human element to the music. Since then his proper releases have shown similarities but the songs are more polished and structured. On 2012-2017 it seems he's returning to the basic sample approach and aiming clearly at the dance floor, the result is seriously good and the release I wasn't sure he'd make. I view this album as 'uncut' where most tracks could easily be edited down, truthfully I think he could've worked this into a perfect 25-30 minute mix. But what's here is so good that I think it's a must hear for any dance fan and an accessible release I expect will be picked up by a lot of DJs. | 1uzfGk9vxMXfaZ2avqwxod | 2018 | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/AAL-Against-All-Logic-2012-2017/release/11613072 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmbqC_2cBWw | ||||||
| 1539631 | Cher | Dark Lady | 1 | This is music for idiots | 1974 | Pop Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Ch%C3%A9r-Dark-Lady/release/1539631 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 649320 | Destroyer (4) | Destroyer's Rubies | 4 | amazinggggggg drunk piano rock for poets | 2006 | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Destroyer-Destroyers-Rubies/release/649320 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KDtJjzJWS0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPVgqFKpp4c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PPNjWaSEdc | |||||
| 8350886 | Samiyam | Animals Have Feelings | 2 | Everything uptown part 1 is prototypical brainfeeder: Spacey hazy LA future electro. The later 2/3s has it's moments but gets repetitive, causing the album to feel bloated overall. | 2zO56oc5qbJ4Ov9g1fMa4w | 2016 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Samiyam-Animals-Have-Feelings/release/8350886 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6d3fPGi8VOI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7xVU4tnXvQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdrGLn0fWPE | ||||
| 5232740 | Todd Rundgren | Something / Anything? | 5 | An excellent representation of 70s rock. It's a straightforward pop record but Rundgren does a number of styles well. It has a pleasant, rich, easy-going feel with lots of lovely elements: catchy numbers, harmonies, solos. Reminds me of soft radio rock and bands like Queen, The Beach Boys as well as Zeppelin's tender tracks. His natural songwriting ability and multi-instrumentation talent make this something original that rewards repeat listenings. Recommended, I've explored a bit of his catalog but keep coming back here. | 3fRCOoTbBsOITBWlCRCJQr | 1972 | Power Pop | Pop Rock | Prog Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Todd-Rundgren-Something-Anything/release/5232740 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-YBDxak1QQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6n89ZvgfX4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Pn7efSaIEM | ||
| 56567 | Clinton | Disco And The Halfway To Discontent | 4 | The freewheeling accompaniment to When I was Born for the 7th Time, this is Cornershop when no one's looking. There's a certain familiarity to the music and I imagine it would be the perfect sound track to an adult cozy 90s apartment party; I quite like it. | 4mTb32iAOXrEo3HQ9XGBO4 | 1999 | House | Experimental | Disco | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Clinton-Disco-And-The-Halfway-To-Discontent/release/56567 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OX5n9cIUMGk | ||||
| 381487 | The Style Council | Our Favourite Shop | 3 | Memorable pop blending elements of punk, funk and a certain reggae vibe; kinda like The Clash doing sophisti-pop. This is my favorite Style Council album as it's focused pure pop goodness and not weighed down by medicore explorations into styles they don’t do so well. | 75nT99YVabgYL2UcyKrPHa | 1985 | Pop Rock | Mod | Soul | Electronic | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Style-Council-Our-Favourite-Shop/release/381487 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xr48EHqvlk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqDRo2p5W1I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mExCJcu98h0 |
| 9312087 | Dark0 | Oceana | 3 | Another quality release from XL: Big bass heavy electro for the kids, total fun. I know nothing about the artist but it's my favorite EP of his on Spotify. | 2QdPuw5YWnA4ydhvrkzVKZ | 2016 | Trap | Grime | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Dark0-Oceana/release/9312087 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8IM4MYkyYU | ||||
| 2827791 | The Epochs | The Epochs | 3 | A solid album by a friend of a friends band with some of the best original music I've heard by people I know. There's never a dull moment due to the albums liveliness and variety of instrumentation, it feels like there is a new sound every 4 bars. The biggest compliment I'll give is the range of influences they successfully draw from. The Holladays are talented songwriters that know what's up, I would be really interested to hear more from these guys. | 5ncEpUsbMQ7CEUczfN5P8P | 2007 | Indie Rock | Experimental | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Epochs-The-Epochs/release/2827791 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 1093872 | Earthless | Rhythms From A Cosmic Sky | 4 | Epic, relentless, bluesy metal; this shit kicks ass. | 6Y8T2vgbz58vu9cKZrjIGh | 2007 | Psychedelic Rock | Experimental | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Earthless-Rhythms-From-A-Cosmic-Sky/release/1093872 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnRwaOrqRHM | |||||
| 2936339 | Duke Ellington,Charles Mingus,Max Roach | Money Jungle | 4 | I liked a bunch of the tracks: * A little max (parfait) * Switchblade, * Backward country boy blues * Caravan * Money jungle I found the rest a little too boppy or slow. The level of musicianship is extraordinary and I especially love Mingus on bass who adds an element that's not usually found in small group jazz. | 1962 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Duke-Ellington-Charlie-Mingus-Max-Roach-Money-Jungle/release/2936339 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZZCxQrM_aA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGowJd-eJOM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mE4kPbMwXbA | |||||
| 9199408 | Adult Jazz | Earrings Off! | 4 | Like a weirder Animal Collective, I dig it. | 0Lp952Y2eyNYBJDb2Y8q8B | 2016 | Experimental | Indie Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Adult-Jazz-Earrings-Off/release/9199408 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LhgjiPuM04 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWYqRVhYlmM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-7xWtdMzWs | ||
| 11524595 | Justin Timberlake | Man Of The Woods | 2 | I was very excited for this record given the timberland / neptunes production. The first three tracks: filthy, midnight summer jam, and sauce are excellent and Timberlake is in vintage form channeling jamiroquai at times. Lyrically things seem more personal and creative which I appreciate. Midnight summer jam is especially good, I can just imagine that harmonica being the perfect thing to cut the atmosphere in a late night sweaty club. The rest of the album really doesn't hold me, just kinda not very good and I don't subscribe to the 'man of the woods' message. It's strange given the amount of talent that was involved. | 01l3jTY261V3CESZR4dABz | 2018 | Contemporary R&B | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Justin-Timberlake-Man-Of-The-Woods/release/11524595 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4vnmgZLA8s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baj6llvgpWA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA-NDZb29I4 | |||
| 2761384 | 88-Keys | Beats No More 2 | 2 | The core string of tracks that sample classic funk, starting with Morris day n' night, is engaging and varied; well suites to hip hop instrumental fans that like funk. Unfortunately the album takes frequent detours into other ideas that aren't as strong. A funk focused ep would've been great. | 2Y5DE0gkMufoW420wJljCG | 2011 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/88-Keys-Beats-No-More-2/release/2761384 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 5318442 | Ricky Eat Acid | Three Love Songs | 3 | A precious ambient-electro album with a careful ebb and flow. Maintains a cozy sick-day from work feel and houses a few blissful vocal-pop moments sprinkled throughout. He is a talented songwriter and I look forward to checking out more of his catalog, I'm surprised he's not more popular. | 4LZXs6WEua2HhM0ZXyOwTO | 2014 | Ambient | Experimental | House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Ricky-Eat-Acid-Three-Love-Songs/release/5318442 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aj1oZ_JoXPM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZrcRS1u4HM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edJUkqizfLQ | ||
| 382135 | The Smiths | Hatful Of Hollow | 4 | So much ink has been spilled about the Smiths I won't even mention their sound. I've found their records inconsistent but this is a good listen all the way through and contains some of their best tracks. Highly accessible and an excellent starting place if you've never heard them, recommended. | 1j57Q5ntVi7crpibb0h4sv | 1984 | Alternative Rock | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Smiths-Hatful-Of-Hollow/release/382135 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-pxlE0zxp0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRyOs6Oeufs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_sKqFkReZk | |||
| 4905714 | Portugal. The Man | It's Complicated Being A Wizard | 4 | Revisiting this since it first came out almost 10 years ago and it's no surprise this band had it's break out. The album keeps a good groove throughout, woven together with interesting electronic textures. I particularly love the first half of opal magic, I've listened to it dozens of times and still think it's a great song. Thematically the lyrics are a little dramatic but it feels like a natural part of his singing style and not pretentious. Recommended. | 2009 | Alternative Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Portugal-The-Man-Its-Complicated-Being-A-Wizard/release/4905714 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 11192765 | Overmono | Arla III EP | 4 | This is a combined review for Arla ep’s I, II and III which I think taken together make a great album. I'm not very good at classifying electronic music but this is quality UK electro like Jamie xx and Four Tet. Each of the EP’s compliments each other, wirth EP II incorporating manipulated vocal hooks as part of the production. On another note, I really need to check out more releases by XL. Starting to see them as an emblem of quality. | 2017 | Ambient | Experimental | Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Overmono-Arla-III-EP/release/11192765 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9aI6q74l7o | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNA8bH_1WMA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSAfdnpDKLs | |||
| 705420 | Daedelus | Denies The Day's Demise | 3 | Daedelus is such an extraordinary talent that all of his catalog is worth a listen. I'm not always in the mood for his rapid fire production style but when I am I find there's always something interesting to hear. Good tracks on days demise include viva vida and sama legrand. | 21TFD5lOkR3bqpYNZ02LKf | 2006 | Breakbeat | IDM | Hip Hop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Daedelus-Denies-The-Days-Demise/release/705420 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FP5dVWzVqEs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2i7X8_OJZlY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4e1pUK1odAM | ||
| 1853631 | Swan Lake | Enemy Mine | 2 | Suggested by a friend for pre-kaputt destroyer, this fell flat on my ears. Lacks chemistry and seemed pretentious, not surprising coming from these drama queens. Bejar's lyrics are good, album highlights are tracks where he's singing. | 5dz7Y93sC5wZfDinwieN1c | 2009 | Alternative Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Swan-Lake-Enemy-Mine/release/1853631 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waGXD034Dfk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_rqllwkLVM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNaFO9I9fM0 | ||||
| 11458178 | Rapsody | Laila's Wisdom | 3 | This chick’s real talented and has a refreshing style with an approachable persona, not trying to play a part. This album houses a well-executed vision that I could see people loving but I found it a little uneven. Definitely some standout tracks (especially chrome) make her someone to watch. | 0IkioqpdjITJwhbRliLoCx | 2018 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Rapsody-Lailas-Wisdom/release/11458178 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3W3QDSET1I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZv0_aBA-ks | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lJJE6sU9tc | ||||
| 8345823 | Parquet Courts | Human Performance | 3 | I really like this band and support their style of punk, owing a lot to 80s influences like the replacements and feelies. Lyrically it has a well-read feel that I find is missing with today's lyricists. I can see spending more time with this album and liking it more in time, definitely a band I'd like to see live. | 4RNew41ZeRuoRNg3YAhvpe | 2016 | Punk | Indie Rock | Post-Punk | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Parquet-Courts-Human-Performance/release/8345823 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D6-8eXlMV4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aiex9fYyuQg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UYm61bsM14 | ||
| 383225 | Orange Juice | Texas Fever | 2 | OK but falls short of their early catalog. | 7KLF5THpz9NpzQ6sGVypIj | 1984 | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Orange-Juice-Texas-Fever/release/383225 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcHL-5bPcyw | ||||||
| 1656086 | Cleveland Eaton | Half And Half | 3 | I like his style but the use of strings watered down the funk. | 6liP6J5zPpRgA8TLJHXT0Z | 1973 | #VALUE! | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Cleveland-Eaton-Half-And-Half/release/1656086 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7gd3MBDyO0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M91V1nF8UCc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHNzoRcAvvM | |||
| 5013943 | Rubblebucket | Omega La La | 3 | Overall it's a nice set of pop songs that are varied in their songwriting. Rubblebucket is a big group with layers of instrumentation including brass and keys. Kalmia Traver’s voice is pleasant, reminds me of Lætitia Sadier from Stereolab (though missing the lyrical genius there). Happiness is abuzz on Omega LaLa with an almost skalike energy. I think the version on Spotify has some distracting sound effects mixed in as it seems different than the version I used to listen to, small slight though. I listened to this record a lot when it first came out and it doesn't feel as strong upon revisiting. On a personal level it reminds me of a person I don't speak with, maybe's what makes this a strange album to hear again. | 5w4YFyAyYtQVb75k2OQsBI | 2011 | #VALUE! | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Rubblebucket-Omega-La-La/release/5013943 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1-nhCR2V6U | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEkU25v8h_c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjHEa77tJVo | ||||
| 11570111 | Rudy Linka | American Trailer | 4 | American Trailer is a guitar driven jazz album with a heavy blues lean. Songs incorporate a variety of jazz styles that includes Beatles covers. I generally like the bluesier tracks better (episode one, Danube Delta blues, song for Jimi) but the slower ballad-like pieces are good too, almost like a lively Jim Hall. I found this album while looking for albums that feature the fantastic drummer Rudy Royston. I'm glad I did as American Trailer has introduced me to Rudy Linka whose guitar playing I really enjoy here: sweet tone that's precise but laid-back at the same time. American Trailer is an accessible album with pop-like melodies and familiar blues licks that I recommend. | 3dDepHyGuzPGqtUv4usovh | 2017 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Rudy-Linka-American-Trailer/release/11570111 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 11470495 | Calexico | The Thread That Keeps Us | 2 | Not bad just boring, far cry from their early catalog. | 5Ws4bwfBSjDopuj2oUISaU | 2018 | Indie Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Calexico-The-Thread-That-Keeps-Us/release/11470495 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELvbO5U2Xvw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWluXbWpbVw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO_z8XUXAkE | |||
| 11575021 | Wild Beasts | Last Night All My Dreams Came True | 2 | I enjoyed parts of this, and it turned me on to songs of theirs I hadn't heard before, but I don't see myself revisiting this album. | 54ZRCymjAwNs5cF80O4R7K | 2018 | #VALUE! | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Wild-Beasts-Last-Night-All-My-Dreams-Came-True/release/11575021 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 10838277 | The Irresistible Force | Kira Kira | 2 | Checked this out on a random recommendation: pleasant sounding electro that doesn't do anything for me. | 3mRWuzpV6SVM1OmvvdRc6h | 2017 | Ambient | Downtempo | Dub | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/The-Irresistible-Force-Kira-Kira/release/10838277 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_oZpfpNYcI | ||||
| 10100775 | Sam Gellaitry | Escapism III | 2 | This in regards to Escapism II and III, I like the sound as far as fancy new big drop electro goes but it felt formulaic and boring; seemed forced. Has it moments and might be a good listen for some. | 39Xf184PU6ESRke6jtAk8n | 2017 | Trap | Instrumental | Bassline | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Sam-Gellaitry-Escapism-III/release/10100775 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hwwl_5stL1M | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2m2lEprDrfo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMx159bYcMs | |
| 11110364 | Calvin Keys | Electric Keys | 3 | Guitar driven jazz with a strong blues lean. I like the blusier numbers like telegraph blues and the hernia but jazz tracks like love and innocence are also good. Solid outing from the great guitarist Calvin Keys. | 2013 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Calvin-Keys-Electric-Keys/release/11110364 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Boqm4wRJVs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGHBvF0_heM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqCFHuw6rpE | |||||
| 5446568 | Colin Vallon Trio | Le Vent | 2 | Too somber and serious for my taste, I found it lacked any semblance of groove. That said an impressive ability is on display and I plan to check out the trios 2017 album which was well reviewed. | 2014 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Colin-Vallon-Trio-Le-Vent/release/5446568 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 1246963 | The Three Pieces | Vibes Of Truth | 2 | Tight jazz-funk notable as being produced by Donald Byrd. An inconsistent album but good for Sunday background music around the house. | 249e8UBxJa6YZ5UDbsdjPp | 1975 | Jazz-Funk | Soul | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/The-3-Pieces-Vibes-Of-Truth/release/1246963 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGg1P2HRjVg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Hcm_NiHuYQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnAhHe94w-g | ||
| 7839 | Fila Brazillia | Maim That Tune | 2 | At it's best this album sounds like early AIR with a backbeat however the songwriting left me wanting more. | 1UruvVOmEgsZ8WNv8IxiQF | 1995 | Downtempo | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Fila-Brazillia-Maim-That-Tune/release/7839 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYEDpHl9UO0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IWnLgRwOE8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcwbkfK8Ku0 | |||
| 3786835 | Greeen Linez | Things That Fade | 3 | Super clean vaporwave inspired electro. Side one is good, side two drags. | 0WBW4pExpZITk6peWXzWlV | 2012 | Smooth Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Synth-pop | Electronic | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Greeen-Linez-Things-That-Fade/release/3786835 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOMO9TM9MtA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3p5s327d28 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4R4OcDjA4M |
| 4158791 | Quasimode | Oneself-LIKENESS | 3 | Relentless percussion and piano give this album a steady forward momentum, reminds me of samba. This is a jazz album though structurally it feels like pop. Solos don't off much or showcase the character of the players, seems the emphasis is on precision rather than exploration. Track highlights include Skeleton coast and feeling green which feature hip hop like drumming. | 5gN1A4s7Rb7CSnLzMQ77dG | 2007 | Afro-Cuban Jazz | Contemporary Jazz | Latin Jazz | Jazz | Latin | https://www.discogs.com/Quasimode-Oneself-LIKENESS/release/4158791 | #VALUE! | |||
| 1007916 | Fridge | The Sun | 4 | I approached this album as if it were a Four Tet side project but he's not the focus here. Instead it's a highly accessible album of superbly written, tight post-rock. The drums are way up in the mix and I like that aspect of rhythm here. Jeffers is a good drummer, nothing revolutionary but he's got a playful approach and switches up the lines constantly. It's relatively bare bones otherwise which is surprising considering four tets knack for layering. An enjoyable listen for fans of post rock or an excellent starting place for those unfamiliar with the genre. | 0q1zf3xYkshpxbyOtwmb6M | 2007 | Post Rock | Experimental | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Fridge-The-Sun/release/1007916 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkniyWnlk5g | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJAAtP_xffY | |||
| 8030779 | Suso Sáiz | Odisea | 2 | I'm not a huge ambient fan so it feels wrong reviewing a career spanning collection for an artist I'm not familiar with (as opposed to a curated best-of). Still I enjoyed the tracks with vocal loops like Un Hombre Oscuro and Sue Que Estas Ahi, as well as a very pretty The Ten Heads of Someone and proto-vaporwave Suelo Para Pisar. There are a number of new-agey tracks haven't aged as well. I can only ever promote documents like this that breathe new life into forgotten artists. Music from memory has an interesting outlet I'll continue to explore. | 1ZysRBBtMseiUudVYwhkkC | 2016 | Experimental | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Suso-S%C3%A1iz-Odisea/release/8030779 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHqujYU2qGM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvEDqU0d22A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvE-GH19JJU | |||
| 9914274 | Gaussian Curve | The Distance | 3 | Light, floating electronic music heavily influenced by ambient; an excellent example of how genres continue to evolve and influence each other. The album unfolds in an almost take-off like fashion where earlier tracks utilize a drum machine and feature a focused groove, almost Air like at times. The album gradually transitions into something much spacier and open that reminded me of solo David Gilmour, I enjoyed the stretched out guitar playing here. Gonna check out more by them. | 1jxF2oJOAr5zR9d1PQnR8Y | 2017 | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Gaussian-Curve-The-Distance/release/9914274 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-wIYYBuG7g | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht1609_MLzU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCN2BVjYiZg | ||||
| 9974207 | Various | Spiritual Jazz Volume 7 - Islam | 2 | It's an OK collection but not worth seeking out in my opinion. I prefer tracks by the individual artists to what was located here in some cases ie Yusef Lateef. | 2017 | Free Jazz | Modal | Free Improvisation | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Various-Spiritual-Jazz-Volume-7-Islam/release/9974207 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56Lor60gMdI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z39tYMqpLXQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om-i4fMonB0 | |||
| 372059 | Everything But The Girl | Eden | 3 | A great record and one hell of a debut album. Tracey Thorn's lyrics are wise beyond her years, singing all too relatable tales of heartbreak and troubled relationships. The bossa nova instrumentation is distinct, I can't say I've heard much else like this 30+ years later. | 1Iugg7G6aPqm23e7TDstaR | 1984 | Acoustic | Pop Rock | Ballad | Jazz | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Everything-But-The-Girl-Eden/release/372059 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJddDYbrxwM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kvfBwuslBY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfSCzHB9N2U |
| 96279 | Everything But The Girl | Walking Wounded | 3 | Though it's a watered down version of Trip-hop, and Tracey's lyrics are missing the wit found on their earlier albums, it's still a solid collection of sad break-up songs from this lovely duo. | 1xgjKvNCxUvNouyRMnArqO | 1996 | Downtempo | Drum n Bass | House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Everything-But-The-Girl-Walking-Wounded/release/96279 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFJPLFx8M78 | ||||
| 10246422 | Kara-Lis Coverdale | Grafts | 2 | A lot of hype surrounding this via tiny mix tapes.Early moments were good but I felt it could've used more of a carry towards the end. Ambient, slow, brooding, electronic organ; highly cerebral and minimalist. | 6hT28oOwJbnRX9qvxbXbTw | 2017 | Ambient | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Kara-Lis-Coverdale-Grafts/release/10246422 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zt2aFbYmw0Q | |||||
| 579446 | Yasuaki Shimizu | Music For Commercials | 4 | Crazy this was made in the 80s for commercials as it's very forward thinking. The album is essentially a collection of little bits of modern classical, kinda like a popped out version of Philip Glass music made for 12 musicians. This is a clear influence to vaporwave and a must for any fans of Avant garde electronic music. | 6EGDUidDFrjFoxg6uSQdbH | 1987 | Modern Classical | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Yasuaki-Shimizu-Music-For-Commercials/release/579446 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dabjI3LRkkQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRJ1BzUqPGg | |||||
| 8050408 | Greeen Linez | The Calm | 2 | I like a lot of the vaporwave ideas here but it's just not very good now is it ? | 2015 | Smooth Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Synth-pop | Electronic | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Greeen-Linez-The-Calm/release/8050408 | #VALUE! | |||
| 5999493 | Greeen Linez | Izu King Street | 3 | Vaporwave inspired electro with a constant 'house' bump. This is probably their best and most accessible album so far. | 7AF9Ka2NGLF1onm8pJYd4V | 2014 | Disco | House | Drum n Bass | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Greeen-Linez-Izu-King-Street/release/5999493 | #VALUE! | |||
| 10943945 | Klein | Tommy EP | 3 | Avant garde sound collage electro, I view this more as a document of new directions in electronic music than a proper album. In that regard it's very good as it explores the possibilities of textures and sounds that feature heavy vocal manipulation, a technique / style I'm always eager to hear more from. I need to take a closer look at hyper dub. I haven't kept up with their output and I feel I may have missed some classics. | 2017 | Experimental | Glitch | Sound Collage | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Klein-Tommy-EP/release/10943945 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhBnzbp3kYY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlMUxTFclvI | ||||
| 11115688 | Call Super | Arpo | 4 | Quality avant garde electro, exploring lots of striking textures, sounds, blips and bloops while still keeping some type of beat. Refreshing in this beatless, 'post-club' environment. | 1W82J9mTKaD3YrKzb867q1 | 2017 | Techno | IDM | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Call-Super-Arpo/release/11115688 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv9CcZfoaA8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDgOSDNlKhY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic9CPEP0h6w | ||
| 30900 | Broadcast | The Noise Made By People | 3 | Sounds like a psychedelic Portishead playing Stereolab covers, recommended. | 4vm6U9WwZvHUKaCNYRj9Bv | 2000 | Downtempo | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Broadcast-The-Noise-Made-By-People/release/30900 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M-p2YWhbCA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5ZJ-N750Bk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqOS7FIliCY | |||
| 9075676 | Show Me The Body | Body War | 4 | <p><h2>What’s it sound like?</h2> <p> A hardcore punk trio playing metal rap. </p><h2>Thoughts</h2> <p>bursting with ideas and energy, this is a modern post hardcore classic. One of the best implementations of metal rap since RATM I can think of</p> <p><br></p><hr></p> | 44byRkiG5AmHjfrBuodMzp | 2016 | Punk | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Show-Me-The-Body-Body-War/release/9075676 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx89dInRiXc | ||||||
| 11209112 | Curtis Harding | Face Your Fear | 3 | What’s it sound like? Truly soulful modern R&B Thoughts Face your fear is true r&b and an excellent example of how you can be a revivalist while taking a modern approach to make it new. The wa-wa guitar lines are done particularly well, creating a sultry sorta 70s feel. Face your fear, on and on, dream girl are a few favorites. | 3Can2qB9S1pOcElpkfExB1 | 2017 | #VALUE! | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Curtis-Harding-Face-Your-Fear/release/11209112 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahyM6VAM5cI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYPQp6EELI0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTyyygxpirk | ||||
| 10814145 | Gang of Youths | Go Farther In Lightness | 3 | What’s it sound like? Indie rock. Big and anthemic at times, like a poor man's Arcade Fire imitating Bruce. Thoughts There's a bunch of good tracks on here and this band shows promise. They've got a knack for writing pop songs but I couldn't help but think the lyrics felt topically limited, as if written by a dramatic teenager. I'm being overly critical this is a great album with a number of memorable moments, recommended. | 0leVOEw8L2TnAfLGwkFnab | 2017 | Post-Punk | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Gang-of-Youths-Go-Farther-In-Lightness/release/10814145 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9URhKk22xbM | ||||||
| 155330 | Patrice Rushen | Straight From The Heart | 2 | What’s it sound like? 80’s R&B Thoughts Some good tracks, forget me not is the standout here, but the album is showing its age. | 73TPk27H5MBU6flqQ1lr09 | 1982 | Disco | Soul | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Patrice-Rushen-Straight-From-The-Heart/release/155330 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrTniJrgfE4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Amzp7W0RkPA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEFzV3vPFJ8 | |||
| 11179432 | Yasuaki Shimizu | Kakashi | 4 | What’s it sound like? Difficult to describe, I guess I'd call this experimental new wave jazz; compositionally close to modern classical. Thoughts It's best to approach this with an open mind as it's not really like anything else I've heard before. The album incorporates a number electro, pop, marimba, world, and dub moments and combines them into an engaging and exciting listen. I can see this album aging well as it rewards repeat listens with its layers and subtleties, even on my first few listens I found myself finding new things. To me this is what the avant garde should be: exploring new ideas through familiar approaches. | 0ZVkkcvhUWQ4hIeoC8Y5Kb | 2017 | Fusion | Ambient | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Yasuaki-Shimizu-Kakashi/release/11179432 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_TmLrovBQc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3TbkE73XMo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khyM0cU1vWY | ||
| 681327 | Phoenix | It's Never Been Like That | 5 | What’s it sound like? Radio friendly pop-rock. Thoughts These songs are so apart of my fabric it's hard to think about them objectively. This is pop-rock songwriting at it's finest, refined in a radio friendly way but with a style that's distinctly there's. Thomas Mars is a fantastic frontman and I love his lyrics, kinda cryptic at times but he sings with an understanding of life that's hard not to find part of your own self or experiences in. I've got to thank Cyril for turning me on to these guys, probably my favorite French export after Daft Punk. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Phoenix-Its-Never-Been-Like-That/release/681327 Listen! Spotify | 2STZqJIh4Kf0OIU5yVgYGV | 2006 | Pop Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Phoenix-Its-Never-Been-Like-That/release/681327 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 5029541 | Pusha T | My Name Is My Name | 4 | What’s it sound like? ‘ugly’ drug rap - raw and unflinching - featuring production from some of this generation best producers. Thoughts One of the best rap albums of the 2010s, Pusha T's distinct aggressive style is in top form here. However it's a love or hate kind of thing, so maybe not the best starting place for those unfamiliar with Clipse. Given his relationship with both Pharrell and Kanye all of the Clipse albums are worth listening to. This is no exception and serves as a certain precursor to yeezus. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Pusha-T-My-Name-Is-My-Name/release/5029541 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWwbr-1tAVA Spotify | 0IoiCReUTgS8veAp98cHIA | 2013 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Pusha-T-My-Name-Is-My-Name/release/5029541 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWwbr-1tAVA | ||||||
| 541843 | Boards Of Canada | The Campfire Headphase | 2 | What’s it sound like? Pleasant mellow ambient-like electro. Thoughts Nothing is inherently bad about the album but it kinda wanders without doing anything particularly well. Lots of good sounding electro bits but nothing memorable and not something I would recommend. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Boards-Of-Canada-The-Campfire-Headphase/release/541843 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iokfQ5Bym2Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBA9yqhH57I Spotify | 0wBiN0fKhy0ywx732SpgUs | 2005 | Post Rock | Downtempo | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Boards-Of-Canada-The-Campfire-Headphase/release/541843 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iokfQ5Bym2Y | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBA9yqhH57I | |||
| 10055021 | Sky Tony | Berri | 2 | What’s it sound like? Instrumental sunny LA funk-lite Thoughts On paper I should like this a lot: LA funk-lite revivalists playing sunny music (seriously sunny, I don't know if you could even think like this living in NYC). The album never grabbed me though, just seemed unimaginative and generic with not a lot to get into. I think they'd do really well with a singer and could see this being a hit with the right lyrics. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sky-Tony-Berri/release/10055021 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B6N7Eumyjs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePV0dSCGphE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkbZMhndQUc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B45gJu5Psjs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8yCbwENjLw Spotify | 5VuLTAToYT3jIEuJzOofHX | 2017 | Boogie | Funk | Electronic | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Sky-Tony-Berri/release/10055021 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B6N7Eumyjs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePV0dSCGphE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkbZMhndQUc | ||
| 10473266 | Garrett | Private Life | 4 | What’s it sound like? A funked out LA synth album Thoughts Killer album from dam-funk, sounds like its just a solo thing but there's enough happening through drum machines and effects to give it an engaging depth. Angel reflections drags a bit but otherwise this is a great listen. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Garrett-Private-Life/release/10473266 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lv7bNDI1_2E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNM6dh_76hA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwI4-8vo47M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grKNWmnEVGs Spotify | 2017 | Soul | Electronic | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Garrett-Private-Life/release/10473266 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lv7bNDI1_2E | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNM6dh_76hA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwI4-8vo47M | ||||
| 10339047 | Guerilla Toss | GT Ultra | 3 | What’s it sound like? Art house punk in the vein of the Talking Heads Thoughts Good band, great energy. Only slight is she's not saying much lyrically but there's such a great energy it's easy to look past and get into. Seems like they'd be great live, gonna check out more. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Guerilla-Toss-GT-Ultra/release/10339047 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIQtRq1sF8A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjCW0XhLd3c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHiA_gAsT44 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moW1LUpxDbc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haIhUSzONzw Spotify | 2HJ2jjZjPe7jhKL6OwtoZY | 2017 | Experimental | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Guerilla-Toss-GT-Ultra/release/10339047 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIQtRq1sF8A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjCW0XhLd3c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHiA_gAsT44 | ||||
| 10358438 | Crescent | Resin Pockets | 3 | What’s it sound like? Pleasant, soulful, lo-fi folksy rock with wandering lyrics. Thoughts Feels like a spiritual cousin to the glow pt 2, a certain authenticity is captured that makes this a good listen. I like the lofi instrumentation which is simple but effective and meticulous in execution; a strange juxtaposition to the lackadaisical vibe that's created. The linear notes include photos of the music being recorded outside in various locations, fitting considering this inspired thoughts of being outside in a grassy field on a summer day. I understand this band has some cachet and I'll be looking to hear more. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Crescent-Resin-Pockets/release/10358438 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01I1kmUkYu8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvH8dAndKdc Spotify | 4FKdKb7TlDYhflfZfzj7Sb | 2017 | Lo-Fi | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Crescent-Resin-Pockets/release/10358438 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01I1kmUkYu8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvH8dAndKdc | |||||
| 5152921 | 1991 | High-Tech High-Life | 3 | 1991 (2) - High-Tech High-Life What’s it sound like? Ambient, vaporwave for adults Thoughts Excellent, vaporwave but more refined and reminds me of Aphex Twin's selected ambient works. This guy wrote a fantastic review here: https://forestpunk.wordpress.com/2013/05/05/1991-high-tech-high-life/ More Info https://www.discogs.com/1991-High-Tech-High-Life/release/5152921 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5E8Jph7mxE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPVKLpvualo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGu8lO34RGM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVVec8OfHuQ Spotify | 2012 | Abstract | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/1991-High-Tech-High-Life/release/5152921 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5E8Jph7mxE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPVKLpvualo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGu8lO34RGM | ||||
| 2320710 | Jimmy McGriff | Friday The 13th. Cook County Jail. | 3 | What’s it sound like? Electric Blues-jazz driven by guitar Thoughts Side 1: the freedom suite 1 and 2 tracks are great blues; raw, fast and dirty. Side 2: Green dolphin street kicks things off with a clarinet solo, setting the pace with calmer standards that were just OK. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-McGriff-Friday-The-13th-Cook-County-Jail/release/2320710 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBNT5fG3Etw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a10kSC_Xhak https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCkg3MN25kQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddUDFH8x5TE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6GSiQ5j6ZA Spotify | 1973 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-McGriff-Friday-The-13th-Cook-County-Jail/release/2320710 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBNT5fG3Etw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a10kSC_Xhak | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCkg3MN25kQ | |||||
| 934193 | Cortex | Troupeau Bleu | 2 | What’s it sound like? Classic jazz-rock fusion with a French touch Thoughts Exceptional Jazz fusion with strong keys playing. Unfortunately I really dislike the scatty female vocals featured throughout and found it tough to listen past them; they really date the album. The second half is better starting roughly with ‘chanson d'un jour d'hiver’ through the end. I don't see myself revisiting this anytime soon. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Cortex-Troupeau-Bleu/release/934193 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mDumt9Nyes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuHNqaN5CmU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZQJSa2M2a4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbNrHOmtN9E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahPa0TioYsg Spotify | 1975 | Bossa Nova | Soul-Jazz | Jazz-Rock | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Cortex-Troupeau-Bleu/release/934193 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mDumt9Nyes | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuHNqaN5CmU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZQJSa2M2a4 | |||
| 11061185 | Daniele Luppi,Parquet Courts | Milano | 3 | What’s it sound like? Indie, alt, art house punk. The opposite of overly produced, raw but articulate. Thoughts I like this band and promote the type of rock their making: straightforward pop with witty lyrics. I appreciate their not hiding behind layers of electronic mess. Karen O adds a good element lyrically to songs like flush. Solid album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Daniele-Luppi-Parquet-Courts-Milano/release/11061185 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYGhHLYwx4I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdcLXfQ4jhg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8s6SPn82F8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajSRlgADrC4 Spotify | 0yKnaRCvWfAXzrYbMXAj3u | 2017 | Alternative Rock | Post-Punk | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Daniele-Luppi-Parquet-Courts-Milano/release/11061185 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYGhHLYwx4I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdcLXfQ4jhg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8s6SPn82F8 | ||
| 11273550 | Allan Kingdom | Lines | 1 | What’s it sound like? New school rap, materialistic bravado Thoughts Derivative and uninteresting, skip this one More Info https://www.discogs.com/Allan-Kingdom-Lines/release/11273550 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pr0-OqQf8m0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxe-J3EjZ2U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diHnx9S0Xrs Spotify | 4fXgyuvLbgY2bKg4GfE2oh | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Allan-Kingdom-Lines/release/11273550 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pr0-OqQf8m0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxe-J3EjZ2U | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diHnx9S0Xrs | ||||
| 9841258 | Skipp Coon | Miles Garvey | 4 | What’s it sound like? Vicious militant protest raps Thoughts Skipp's taking aim at inequality, both financial and racial. While his raps are good the beats are exceptional, some of my favorite recent productions. The songs are on the shorter side but it works well as an album, making for concise poignant verses. Impressive. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Skipp-Coon-Miles-Garvey/release/9841258 Listen! Youtube #VALUE! Spotify | 5VGuiCvS8d6YBlVbiyKZT3 | 2014 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Skipp-Coon-Miles-Garvey/release/9841258 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 9146873 | Don't DJ | Musique Acephale | 3 | What’s it sound like? Percussive, almost tribal, deep house Thoughts These tracks are lush productions with a relatively high tempo that keeps the whole thing moving well. This opens up after multiple plays and requires a patient listener to get lost in the hypnotic rhythm for subtle rewards. Not accessible in other words. Liked pornoire, evolve. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dont-DJ-Musique-Acephale/release/9146873 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e33zrfKOYwg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAodvoGpQ9I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssXziDBzR-0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hG-7zqLKRTg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_lEDbLrZGs Spotify | 6uqMJRkTF8bPXO0DrbQlZN | 2016 | #REF! | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Dont-DJ-Musique-Acephale/release/9146873 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e33zrfKOYwg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAodvoGpQ9I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssXziDBzR-0 | ||||
| 8234896 | Mizan K | Dark Blue | 3 | What’s it sound like? Dark modern r&b Thoughts Basic recordings, it seems to be just piano, her and some production; typically a loop with a disconnected low-key vibe. She kind of mumble sings, like a stoned Alicia Keys, but what lacks in vocal range she makes up for in sincerity and memorable songwriting. ‘Looking for’ kicks things off well, and is probably the most accessible track, but I enjoy the whole ep. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mizan-K-Dark-Blue/release/8234896 Listen! Spotify | 4vjAQncLc2kmcrS9FcWSXG | 2016 | Contemporary R&B | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Mizan-K-Dark-Blue/release/8234896 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 7567149 | Bryson Tiller | Trapsoul | 2 | What’s it sound like? Radio friendly trap / hip hop / r&b Thoughts Can skip this one, nothing interesting happening here. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bryson-Tiller-Trapsoul/release/7567149 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aj9coPGuFkM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7cVLE4SaN0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4MHrrIQuis Spotify | 2015 | Trap | Contemporary R&B | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Bryson-Tiller-Trapsoul/release/7567149 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aj9coPGuFkM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7cVLE4SaN0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4MHrrIQuis | |||
| 563477 | Patrice Rushen | Now | 4 | What’s it sound like? 80’s Low-key funk / r&b. Thoughts Show's it's age at times but this is top notch songwriting, has a chill purple-one vibe to the tracks at time. This is the first album I listened to of hers but the songs are generally sparse: synth, drum machine, bass, lyrics. She's super effective with the synths creating spacey soundscapes or jazzy solos (she's a piano player). Lyrically she's got a certain authenticity that penetrates the sometimes too precise instrumentation. Mostly good but some real standouts with: feels so real, each his own, gotta find it. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Patrice-Rushen-Now/release/563477 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WDdE8k2VcI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QueBdytffAA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOEMKE3pUDE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3QBTyqTeB4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVlgpBEh0r4 Spotify | 0CpKwwxcosSey6YRRCXESH | 1984 | Disco | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Patrice-Rushen-Now/release/563477 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WDdE8k2VcI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QueBdytffAA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOEMKE3pUDE | ||||
| 475021 | Campfire Songs | Campfire Songs | 4 | What’s it sound like? Avantgarde campfire sing-along Thoughts An album to get lost in and wonderful introduction to the band. Animal Collective’s early trademark strummed guitars and chant like vocals are the core of the album. The sound is defined by it's lo-fi recording technique that somehow provides both a boxed in but outside. An ode to the human experience of singing together, it definitely has the effect of transporting you to the moment. I'd like to include this as part of my piece about our 'desire to be outside' and how self mythology strives for this. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Campfire-Songs-Campfire-Songs/release/475021 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4xG5kFHrC0 Spotify | 2QOzs3PGPsY5mrc7XBXOHW | 2003 | Indie Rock | Experimental | Acoustic | Rock | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Campfire-Songs-Campfire-Songs/release/475021 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4xG5kFHrC0 | ||
| 4968029 | Four Tet | Beautiful Rewind | 4 | What’s it sound like? Techno, creative electro, British, jungle at times Thoughts While these are rough cuts Kieran’s noodling is better then most polished outputs. He employs jungle like rhythm which isn't usually my thing but it's done well here, creating a worldly type of vibe. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Four-Tet-Beautiful-Rewind/release/4968029 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12fzoLlyBWM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njiv2ZR4TZk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9cd1dF34A8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxCdfb8n_R4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGTnkrw3Tc0 Spotify | 7gN7gWms3Uz0GLLtLYHybk | 2013 | Techno | Deep House | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Four-Tet-Beautiful-Rewind/release/4968029 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12fzoLlyBWM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njiv2ZR4TZk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9cd1dF34A8 | ||
| 7835971 | Raury | All We Need | 3 | What’s it sound like? A blend of pop, hip hop, acoustic songwriter, alternative, r&b Thoughts Instrumentation and songwriting is really good, he's clearly plugged in given some of the features on this; points for pulling from the right influences. Engaged by the variety of styles, I enjoyed the first seven or so, he's at his best when he's evoking Andre 3000 ala forbidden knowledge. I feel he needs a bit more time to grow as a lyricist as he raps about the right topics but lacks lyrical wit. The album is long winded and his altruistic preaching feels disconnected and unrelatable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Raury-All-We-Need/release/7835971 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89MJKqbGvuk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoI2C6pW9AQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_KQCEFPObE Spotify | 5UOaWbjsdPwjPzzQbCGPWl | 2015 | Pop Rap | Rhythm & Blues | Acoustic | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | Folk | https://www.discogs.com/Raury-All-We-Need/release/7835971 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89MJKqbGvuk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoI2C6pW9AQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_KQCEFPObE |
| 9302447 | Ricky Eat Acid | Talk To You Soon | 4 | What’s it sound like? A scatter of modern electro styles: trap, Blood Diamonds / Grimes art-electro, pensive piano bits, confessional lyrics. Thoughts Another good one from Ricky, this is the third album I've heard of his and I continue to be impressed by his catalog. The constant change is what makes this such an engaging album. He's not a particularly good songwriter but strings this together into a great collage. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ricky-Eat-Acid-Talk-To-You-Soon/release/9302447 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyeD8Ip04WY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIYGUcqmfas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qUP-XP5DCk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_LXUaakt7g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqsAcA3IGUg Spotify | 41fm3f6h9lKcbYl8mkjzVZ | 2016 | Downtempo | House | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Ricky-Eat-Acid-Talk-To-You-Soon/release/9302447 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyeD8Ip04WY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIYGUcqmfas | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qUP-XP5DCk | ||
| 3673207 | Fiona Apple | The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than The Driver Of The Screw And Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do | 5 | What’s it sound like? Singer songwriter with pop sensibility and a strong backing band Thoughts An all around masterpiece: compositionally, lyrically, sonically. I like the mastering as the sparse instrumentation is brought forward in the mix, creating a distinct texture as if you could reach out and feel each of the instruments. Her lyrics are pure poetry, singing relatable vulnerabilities in a confident and experienced way. She's Fiona as she's always been: fierce, intense and bursting with feeling. Not a bad track on here, this is 'singer songwriter' at a master level. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Fiona-Apple-The-Idler-Wheel-Is-Wiser-Than-The-Driver-Of-The-Screw-And-Whipping-Cords-Will-Serve-You-/release/3673207 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIlLq4BqGdg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fby632bPn0E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDfSA4VloPg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfXvIs9bojM Spotify | 7uccppFArLf9dNOwDftOZa | 2012 | Alternative Rock | Pop Rock | Ballad | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Fiona-Apple-The-Idler-Wheel-Is-Wiser-Than-The-Driver-Of-The-Screw-And-Whipping-Cords-Will-Serve-You-/release/3673207 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIlLq4BqGdg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fby632bPn0E | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDfSA4VloPg | |
| 7636866 | 4th Coming | Strange Things: 1970 - 1974 | 4 | What’s it sound like? Funky bluesy r&b Thoughts A soulful thread is at the heart of this great album, weaving together a bit of everything from the era including folk and country (things I don't usually like but are done well here). There's not a bad track here, reminds me of a funky version of the band. More Info https://www.discogs.com/4th-Coming-Strange-Things-1970-1974/release/7636866 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_SV_vXHTRY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3Y9oqKo8Lc Spotify | 4kwIasWUTsii5bSXUFFlDT | 2015 | Psychedelic | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/4th-Coming-Strange-Things-1970-1974/release/7636866 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_SV_vXHTRY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3Y9oqKo8Lc | |||||
| 7421027 | Empress Of | Me | 2 | What’s it sound like? Female fronted synth pop Thoughts All the pieces are there for me to love but this album just doesn't do it for me, the songwriting felt dull and repetitive. She's got a fantastic voice so am curious to hear more. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Empress-Of-Me/release/7421027 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLDCjV5TsYc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IoSagKdsYU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TukCmPGhjzI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwo_HeW4G-Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ht5d7gVqo1I Spotify | 7xspFABWWi4Pzs5dullqCY | 2015 | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Empress-Of-Me/release/7421027 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLDCjV5TsYc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IoSagKdsYU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TukCmPGhjzI | ||||
| 9050714 | Esprit 空想 | Virtua.zip | 4 | What’s it sound like? Vaporwave with a steady hip-hop, boom bap, backbeat. Thoughts Feels like vaporwave is going club which I enjoy. An accessible album with short songs that give it a mix like feel. Hard to call them songs at all, seems he figures out something that works, loops it a bit then onto the next. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Esprit-%E7%A9%BA%E6%83%B3-Virtuazip/release/9050714 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz7v92nwRdA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afrStlp-Gdk Spotify | 2014 | Vaporwave | Chillwave | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Esprit-%E7%A9%BA%E6%83%B3-Virtuazip/release/9050714 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz7v92nwRdA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afrStlp-Gdk | |||||
| 3302455 | 18 Carat Affair | Vintage Romance | 3 | What’s it sound like? lofi synth found sound with vaporwave aspects Thoughts I like the production texture, certain haziness at play. Not vaporwave but borrows heavily from that aesthetic. Seems like recent of vaporwave producers is incorporating more into beats as this has something bumping the whole way through. More Info https://www.discogs.com/18-Carat-Affair-Vintage-Romance/release/3302455 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZZYeD_-SbI Spotify | 1l3ok2CuYB8wWKUTm4jssh | 2011 | Abstract | Downtempo | New Age | Electronic | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/18-Carat-Affair-Vintage-Romance/release/3302455 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZZYeD_-SbI | |||
| 8678515 | Let's Eat Grandma | I, Gemini | 3 | What’s it sound like? Multi-instrument female fronted alt-pop Thoughts An impressive debut with varied instrumentation creating layers of textures that draws from the best of female alt-pop. The core is a dual harmony with an almost sprite like quality, Tegan and Sara kinda. There's a darkness here akin to Grimes earlier stuffand bjork’s ethereal quality. The maturity of the songwriting is what I find most impressive as these songs build and morph in a measured way. The album starts to wander in the second half but this is a must for fans of modern female alt-pop. The future looks exceedingly bright for this duo. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lets-Eat-Grandma-I-Gemini/release/8678515 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buN4ga33Og8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZ3tmmkr3sg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3k05-qRu5GE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddbnr-YjmMY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAaD5nzI89M Spotify | 3fe6hydLZBtpyujkqCYkXE | 2016 | Experimental | Leftfield | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Lets-Eat-Grandma-I-Gemini/release/8678515 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buN4ga33Og8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZ3tmmkr3sg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3k05-qRu5GE | ||
| 5094226 | Alice Cooper | Love It To Death | 2 | What’s it sound like? 'Hard’ classic rock Thoughts Aside from 18 I’m not familiar with Alice Cooper's catalog so I was looking forward to this when I saw it was high on WFMUs most played albums list. This album starts off as solid barebones rock and roll. It recounts the doors (black juju), and a forebearer to chord driven punk like the Ramones (Long way to go), sounds of Iggy pop and Black Sabbath are definitely at play. Unfortunately it feels slightly watered down from those greats and it begins to show itself as the album wears on; I just don't find it to be a great listen. Hard to write as I know this was influential to many but to my ears it just doesn't stand the test of time. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Alice-Cooper-Love-It-To-Death/release/5094226 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRFnnVMawpY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgTVKW7g2Dg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngHrfRul7gQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTMH9V9OLdg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2HKxS_HMT8 Spotify | 6p7jHbG5Bd6z2JgfKx0um7 | 1971 | Classic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Alice-Cooper-Love-It-To-Death/release/5094226 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRFnnVMawpY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgTVKW7g2Dg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngHrfRul7gQ | ||||
| 853984 | X | More Fun In The New World | 2 | What’s it sound like? New Wave Punk, erudite bar hero Thoughts Another heavily played wfmu album. X is an intriguing band, reminds me of new wave punk like later Talking Heads. Instrumentation has a good energy if nothing that special. Lyrically distinct, I like the straightforwardness and humor of the lyrics, cynicism isn't done as well today. Not my thing but planning to check out more by the band. More Info https://www.discogs.com/X-More-Fun-In-The-New-World/release/853984 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUsA76rGzYk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dR0H_Y8McVQ Spotify | 0GiCAFxVPQgud8XVATQA4Z | 1983 | Alternative Rock | Punk | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/X-More-Fun-In-The-New-World/release/853984 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUsA76rGzYk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dR0H_Y8McVQ | ||||
| 2557960 | Jimmy McGriff | Electric Funk | 3 | What’s it sound like? Funky instrumental rhythm and blues Thoughts Dirty like the meters with the great Jimmy McGriff on organ. This recording is particularly rich which makes it a great example of the era. Not a lot of variety but it's constantly building and unfolding, made especially effective by the use of brass. The 2nd half after bird wave is where it's at. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-McGriff-Electric-Funk/release/2557960 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeJ-a1e_pHQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zONFbXXviho https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCuNPvROoQg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0siemKxiqA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MW_DvwSYws Spotify | 1997 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Jimmy-McGriff-Electric-Funk/release/2557960 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeJ-a1e_pHQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zONFbXXviho | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCuNPvROoQg | ||||
| 11763515 | Jóhann Jóhannsson | Englabörn & Variations | 4 | What’s it sound like? Small classical string ensemble with modern electronic elements. Thoughts Masterful… this might be a ‘5’ in time. Tracks typically unfold through repetition that's effective at building tension. As it's structured like a soundtrack this repetition becomes a drag at times. But the breaks from the repetitive songs cover a range of emotion from high joy on "eg heyroi allt an pess ao hlusta", to the modern "odi et amo" with it's synthetic voice like on oh Superman. Fantastic More Info https://www.discogs.com/J%C3%B3hann-J%C3%B3hannsson-Englab%C3%B6rn-Variations/release/11763515 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGUChdpuX6E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hFlsR_y2t4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqWzGnpYYqI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElMWJNLmfFo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdfdN4uAdFY Spotify | 0ubR7YFPjKNIQw4M9YMM4B | 2018 | Modern Classical | Ambient | Electronic | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/J%C3%B3hann-J%C3%B3hannsson-Englab%C3%B6rn-Variations/release/11763515 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGUChdpuX6E | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hFlsR_y2t4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqWzGnpYYqI | ||
| 1240945 | Black Mountain | In The Future | 3 | What’s it sound like? Slow burning hard rock Thoughts Like a modern version of early stoner black Sabbath; huge compliment there. Requires a certain patience but worth it for fans of the genre. The epic track bright lights is the possibly the best example, a hard rock build and swell. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Black-Mountain-In-The-Future/release/1240945 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhMlNWn10p4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gtvi-neFZdg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHXe2QPmCS0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5hsj8KsQ0U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhPY9wYzwsk Spotify | 6Px7D6BKZIj4DuaRWsADBe | 2008 | Blues Rock | Space Rock | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Black-Mountain-In-The-Future/release/1240945 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhMlNWn10p4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gtvi-neFZdg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHXe2QPmCS0 | ||
| 11144303 | D.K. | Distant Images | 2 | What’s it sound like? Vaporwave like Thoughts It's alright More Info https://www.discogs.com/DK-Distant-Images/release/11144303 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0oLPoJRcHsY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BewDxQI_udc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtABS1MzhCU Spotify | 3Vk9nJbXE6dQ6LadNxHMfz | 2017 | Deep House | Ambient | Leftfield | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/DK-Distant-Images/release/11144303 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0oLPoJRcHsY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BewDxQI_udc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtABS1MzhCU | ||
| 2059645 | Dubphonic | Relight | 2 | What’s it sound like? Trip hop Thoughts Mediocre trip hop, nothing I felt I needed to hear again. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dubphonic-Relight/release/2059645 Listen! Spotify | 75lcqF9MCBVIWq90a7gRvw | 2009 | Dub | Trip Hop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Dubphonic-Relight/release/2059645 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 777988 | Junior Boys | So This Is Goodbye | 5 | What’s it sound like? Sparse kinda danceable electropop Thoughts I've listened to this record a ton over the years and revisiting it now I'm reminded of my 20s. A lot of these tracks are absolute classics. I find the cool/confident delivery of the vocals to be distinct and a big part of the appeal. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Junior-Boys-So-This-Is-Goodbye/release/777988 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdRr8SXATp4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uak5XHVfWqI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpoVR96jFK0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUijIydN8t8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_on9AcY_62I Spotify | 2SK0Fk4qGuZiDRBNEiPg8e | 2006 | Synth-pop | Indie Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Junior-Boys-So-This-Is-Goodbye/release/777988 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdRr8SXATp4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uak5XHVfWqI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpoVR96jFK0 | ||
| 7686778 | Ivy Lab | 20/20 Volume One | 2 | What’s it sound like? Big bass Thoughts Too future trendy for me More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ivy-Lab-2020-Volume-One/release/7686778 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbgtBl4p15o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQHkH5RLlxE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y16udCQAvRw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-m2gXs54mg Spotify | 2015 | Drum n Bass | Hip Hop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Ivy-Lab-2020-Volume-One/release/7686778 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbgtBl4p15o | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQHkH5RLlxE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y16udCQAvRw | ||||
| 2546873 | The XX | XX | 4 | What’s it sound like? Precious trio that creates spacious but intimate indie rock Thoughts An incredible debut album for modern indie. Its very sparse but incredibly effective, somehow they're able to sound both as expansive as a desert landscape and intimate as a dark cozy room. A technically basic album, the dual vocals of Romy and Oliver are hard not to love. Jamie xx has proven himself to be a master of texture and there's a certain atmosphere that's captured well here. By letting single notes hang and drift or adding some bits of wobbly bass he creates a distinct and fresh sound. This album stands the test of time and has left an impression on indie rock. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-XX-XX/release/2546873 Listen! Spotify | 2rmMeEq5D1Bg7YFRwtHBDr | 2009 | Alternative Rock | Indie Rock | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/The-XX-XX/release/2546873 | #REF! | ||||
| 745333 | Black Mountain | Black Mountain | 3 | What’s it sound like? A desert rock version of arcade fire: authentic and anthemic. Thoughts The band sounds very different here than on in the future. Elements of modern indie are at play and things seem more hopeful than dark and epic (though there is still a rich vision to their sound). I like the tracks that incorporate sax, it's used in a kind of jazz freak out way that I think is particularly effective. Good band. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Black-Mountain-Black-Mountain/release/745333 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lgo9VXY8PCc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZpSQNs0k40 Spotify | 2axgPfP2SL3dqVI9MimiwU | 2005 | Stoner Rock | Southern Rock | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Black-Mountain-Black-Mountain/release/745333 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lgo9VXY8PCc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZpSQNs0k40 | |||
| 696619 | 13th Floor Elevators | Easter Everywhere | 3 | What’s it sound like? 60’s psychadelica Thoughts Prime psychadelica with a pop lean that makes this an accessible record. There's an aggressive tension the band develops that is kept up throughout. I think in large part this is due to the singers natural style and noisy distorted blues guitar. Recommended More Info https://www.discogs.com/13th-Floor-Elevators-Easter-Everywhere/release/696619 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lw--pywH9Wk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGXvuRXxdY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoyG-jQPJlg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lYm5fxKomY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4ezx9wC8v0 Spotify | 5RQNjPQbqY82MBTwaQp3ik | 1967 | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/13th-Floor-Elevators-Easter-Everywhere/release/696619 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lw--pywH9Wk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGXvuRXxdY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoyG-jQPJlg | ||||
| 5183009 | Oneohtrix Point Never | R Plus Seven | 4 | What’s it sound like? Avant garde electro Thoughts OPN has highly effective moments that will always keep me curious about his work. R plus seven is a great piece of work but it gets a little tiring at times (maddening loops, lots of nothing). Fans will recognize these as signatures of his compositions which help to build toward these bigger moments. The Sonic profile of his music serves to create the apt description of "Facebook servers making music". More Info https://www.discogs.com/Oneohtrix-Point-Never-R-Plus-Seven/release/5183009 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvDzaQOSZ3E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blgwXDAB8iA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGcoDGljrRs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1QAM9rq1PA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v83yeA0WRkI Spotify | 68PRq4zj7YXMwiUq6FNGvR | 2013 | Musique Concrète | Ambient | Drone | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Oneohtrix-Point-Never-R-Plus-Seven/release/5183009 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvDzaQOSZ3E | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blgwXDAB8iA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGcoDGljrRs | ||
| 2848983 | Blue Sky Black Death | Noir | 3 | What’s it sound like? Sparkly kinda electro hip hop. Sunny with old soul samples sprinkled throughout Thoughts It's very new school and polished, could've used a bit more grit, but very well done. The record is way too long, only an hour but the length of the tracks and relative similarity in composition and production caused it to feel like a drag. A shame cause I think there's a lot of talent here and had it been focused could've been a really impactful album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Blue-Sky-Black-Death-Noir/release/2848983 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CyzOq3hVOw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwvhMbnhprY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSb9FHwZy6s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4qICd3ldLU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlYwzRCtziI Spotify | 7x58XAkrOztpUPXcv1gM8i | 2011 | Abstract | Downtempo | Shoegaze | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Blue-Sky-Black-Death-Noir/release/2848983 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CyzOq3hVOw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwvhMbnhprY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSb9FHwZy6s | |
| 408838 | Labradford | Mi Media Naranja | 3 | What’s it sound like? Noirish post rock Thoughts The guitar has a certain Americana shimmer/reverb that really develops the texture here, creating a creepy David Lynch atmosphere. Each track tends to feature some background ambient noise like a slight rumble and a high pitched tone. Highly repetitive but with subtle changes that unfold gloriously to the patient listener. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Labradford-Mi-Media-Naranja/release/408838 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7zbdfV6cfw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCcyMKEUHlU Spotify | 3YmrGKByGH5sVnFGtb5KvK | 1997 | Space Rock | Minimal | Ambient | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Labradford-Mi-Media-Naranja/release/408838 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7zbdfV6cfw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCcyMKEUHlU | ||
| 129229 | Nathaniel Merriweather,Lovage,Mike Patton,Jennifer Charles | Music To Make Love To Your Old Lady By | 3 | Nathaniel Merriweather,Lovage,Mike Patton,Jennifer Charles - Music To Make Love To Your Old Lady By What’s it sound like? The songs feature Dan The Automator’s signature hip hop with vocals from Mike Patton and Jennifer Charles (elysian fields) singing satirical love songs. Thoughts A curiosity from Dan the automator more than anything. It's always a treat hearing his production, and I'm a Mike Patton fan, so even if the result is uneven it was worth hearing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Nathaniel-Merriweather-Presents-Lovage-Avec-Michael-Patton-Jennifer-Charles-Music-To-Make-Love-To-Yo/release/129229 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxf21Yh0LsI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzzBvjFnMfE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTeHE1zKnHg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQECbvT0Yb4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwBRkN9__uc Spotify | 3QFwPfYolMmXNNdOrRLLGE | 2001 | Chanson | Downtempo | Hip Hop | Electronic | Hip Hop | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Nathaniel-Merriweather-Presents-Lovage-Avec-Michael-Patton-Jennifer-Charles-Music-To-Make-Love-To-Yo/release/129229 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxf21Yh0LsI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzzBvjFnMfE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTeHE1zKnHg |
| 9001208 | Blood Orange | Freetown Sound | 5 | What’s it sound like? Modern pop / R&B. Has a soulful well traveled hip vibe to it that incorporates elements of 80s synth funk. Thoughts Why a 5? This album was there for me in the hottest loneliest summer. It inspires hope fear and honesty. I'll love it til I die. Dev hynes you rock, thanks for this one. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Blood-Orange-Freetown-Sound/release/9001208 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyW9Ro4H2g4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shqzgl_X5FY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXtzcViZPGA Spotify | 3Z2XUjgVj5ZkCGpU7b2qtY | 2016 | Contemporary R&B | Downtempo | Leftfield | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Blood-Orange-Freetown-Sound/release/9001208 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyW9Ro4H2g4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shqzgl_X5FY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXtzcViZPGA |
| 11754340 | Miles Davis,John Coltrane | The Final Tour (The Bootleg Series, Vol. 6) | 5 | What’s it sound like? Dude… it's miles and trane Thoughts An excellent collection of live jazz. It's dense for a straight-through listening session but for an abridged selection I'd probably pick a start with the Copenhagen tracks where things are a bit more melodic and playful then get into the Paris tracks. The solos in Paris, particularly from trane, are extra crunchy form, worth the price of admission just ‘on all of you’ where it's putting his all in. Can't recommend this enough, some of my favorite live jazz. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Miles-Davis-John-Coltrane-The-Final-Tour-The-Bootleg-Series-Vol-6/release/11754340 Listen! Spotify | 3p6XK8PERkujtV6MRu7QH3 | 2018 | Hard Bop | Modal | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Miles-Davis-John-Coltrane-The-Final-Tour-The-Bootleg-Series-Vol-6/release/11754340 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 9658655 | Colin Vallon Trio | Danse | 3 | What’s it sound like? Modern jazz trio led by somber pensive piano player Thoughts Serious piano playing is at the core of this album. While there's bass and percussion it feels like a secondary compared to Vallon. Songs tend to follow a repetitive structure of sparse starts that build towards chaos. Tracks 'tsunami’ and ‘smile’ force emotion on you through an intense progression. I prefer tracks like ‘sisyphe’ and ‘danse’ which seem to evolve naturally through the musicians interplay. ‘Kid’ is an album highlight, beautiful with it's melodic sentimentality. A lot to like if this is your style. The best I've heard from this trip yet. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Colin-Vallon-Trio-Danse/release/9658655 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUzkHM1rwZc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z422AnEFbc Spotify | 2017 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Colin-Vallon-Trio-Danse/release/9658655 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUzkHM1rwZc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z422AnEFbc | ||||||
| 335413 | Junior Boys | Last Exit | 4 | What’s it sound like? Breathy synth-pop Thoughts Side one is amazing, side two is great but lacks a certain something from side one. This is top notch for minimal synth pop. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Junior-Boys-Last-Exit/release/335413 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7rTBe1f57k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PhSpJppLu4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXX8qfqvJas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GD0Kktjw7eg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z28HTTtJJEE Spotify | 6Me57GV1wueTVeNx9Bxo3R | 2004 | Leftfield | Downtempo | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Junior-Boys-Last-Exit/release/335413 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7rTBe1f57k | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PhSpJppLu4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXX8qfqvJas | ||
| 10445431 | Young Thug | Beautiful Thugger Girls | 2 | What’s it sound like? Pop-rap, the cover art presents an accurate view of the vibe. Thoughts Reminds me when Wayne was doing pop-rock a few years ago. The hooks and lyrics fall short and Young Thugs schtick gets a bit repetitive. I appreciate his attempt at a different style but this isn't his best work. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Young-Thug-Beautiful-Thugger-Girls/release/10445431 Listen! Spotify | 51KZKzPd3OQT1r46a55VTt | 2017 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Young-Thug-Beautiful-Thugger-Girls/release/10445431 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 18227 | Labradford | E Luxo So | 2 | What’s it sound like? Post rock Thoughts Sparse, slow and boring. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Labradford-E-Luxo-So/release/18227 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpXZ51G-DHM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1JFXSWu4WI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ct0ojY51TA4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNxdLYufLiA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5Ue5XiTluA Spotify | 5uPYC0s8NmkePTvg6l02T0 | 1999 | Post Rock | Minimal | Ambient | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Labradford-E-Luxo-So/release/18227 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpXZ51G-DHM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1JFXSWu4WI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ct0ojY51TA4 | |
| 10425953 | Sports | Modern Species | 3 | What’s it sound like? Reminds me of a more clubby version of the orb or 808 state. Thoughts Philip sherburne wrote the pitchfork review which covers things well ( https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/dj-sports-modern-species/ ) Tracks cover a range of influences (trance, dub, breakbeat house). It has a club vibe but extended. This would play very well in the panther room of output. I like fertile Crescent which pitchfork called one of the house tracks. More Info https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Sports-Modern-Species/release/10425953 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYo9pxJVGfs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWx7VDFh6ZA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jAt6q_NUL8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeCSVd3eeCk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twUHnB4Vq4w Spotify | 2017 | House | Breakbeat | Drum n Bass | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Sports-Modern-Species/release/10425953 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYo9pxJVGfs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWx7VDFh6ZA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jAt6q_NUL8 | |||
| 11027669 | Kerri Chandler | DJ-Kicks | 2 | What’s it sound like? A mix of songs from the 70s and 80s ranging from soulful jazz to r&b and proto rap. Thoughts It's an ode to music made in NY that influenced Kerri. From that document standpoint it's perfect and captures the time well. I personally enjoyed the jazzier tracks with instrumentation, these featured tight and soulful personal playing. I wasn't too into the poppier synth stuff as it sounded a bit dated. https://www.residentadvisor.net/reviews/21650 More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kerri-Chandler-DJ-Kicks/release/11027669 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfHdJHNIDCQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDHqLDxONR8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVc4a35ojRQ Spotify | 2ZwPMw0RAsKF4W4yvjV5ZJ | 2017 | #REF! | Electronic | Hip Hop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Kerri-Chandler-DJ-Kicks/release/11027669 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfHdJHNIDCQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDHqLDxONR8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVc4a35ojRQ | ||
| 32662 | Aphex Twin | Selected Ambient Works 85-92 | 5 | What’s it sound like? Techno with a pleasant floating ambient element. Certain tracks utilize a drum machine for a dance vibe, others are extended and much more in the ambient realm relying on repetition to create feeling. Thoughts A masterpiece: this sounds great and is aphex twin at his most accessible. Though the production can feel dated at times it never detracts. It's distinct and a key album of influence for alt-electro of all stripes, it's easy to hear how this would go onto influence many different artists while still sounding just as relevant today. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Aphex-Twin-Selected-Ambient-Works-85-92/release/32662 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aL8lYoOxTv4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0q1gCsZykg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hCDHH9jHZk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGf9wnOtGLU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xw5AiRVqfqk Spotify | 7aNclGRxTysfh6z0d8671k | 1992 | Techno | IDM | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Aphex-Twin-Selected-Ambient-Works-85-92/release/32662 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aL8lYoOxTv4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0q1gCsZykg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hCDHH9jHZk | ||
| 11610234 | Various | Uneven Paths: Deviant Pop From Europe 1980-1991 | 3 | What’s it sound like? A curiosity cabinet of sparse 80’s DIY-sounding pop. Styles range from folk to r&b and synth driven. Thoughts Inconsistent and dated at times but mostly good album. Interesting as it almost fills a gap in the music timeline as to how art-house was fully incorporated into pop. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Various-Uneven-Paths-Deviant-Pop-From-Europe-1980-1991/release/11610234 Listen! Spotify | 2018 | Experimental | Ambient | New Wave | Electronic | Jazz | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Various-Uneven-Paths-Deviant-Pop-From-Europe-1980-1991/release/11610234 | #REF! | |||
| 2443457 | Nico | Chelsea Girl | 4 | What’s it sound like? Folksy 60s new York singer songwriter with dramatic string arrangements. No bass or percussion, Nico's distinct voice is at the center of it all, singing lyrics about friends, life, change, stories of new york (especially convincing considering she didn't write any of the lyrics). I like the dark textures of ‘it was a pleasure then’, an electric guitar is employed to do general noodling and effects before breaking into some dissonant soundscape. It's particularly effective given the album had been entirely acoustic. Thoughts This album has aged very well. Nico's nonchalant character feels very New York and the album carries a feeling of walking around the city. Her vocal range is limited but her distinct masculinity is appealing. I see this continuing to have a 'cool' appeal for future listeners through her association with the velvet underground. My only previous exposure to Nico was on the VU's debut, surprised to know a number of the singles. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Nico-Chelsea-Girl/release/2443457 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImdBCfAptos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_z_UEuEMAo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwZdkkv_owA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKGigEzIBaY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jo-wu2okc2M Spotify | 48F2kUB0xFkajs3zKUEzHv | 1967 | Folk Rock | Lo-Fi | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Nico-Chelsea-Girl/release/2443457 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImdBCfAptos | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_z_UEuEMAo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwZdkkv_owA | |||
| 6489505 | Death Grips | Fashion Week (Instrumentals) | 2 | What’s it sound like? Industrial instrumental electro, a modern house version of prime-NIN. Thoughts The instrumentals are fine Death grips fans will obviously miss MC Ride who is in all other death grips releases. Has its moments but nothing I felt like revisiting. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Death-Grips-Fashion-Week-Instrumentals/release/6489505 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSN0Pw-xDVI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVfZNvhLwx4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Elxbof0ifs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyCgP8ggrA8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ooh-nKj2VO0 Spotify | 2015 | Instrumental | Soundtrack | Experimental | Electronic | Hip Hop | Stage & Screen | https://www.discogs.com/Death-Grips-Fashion-Week-Instrumentals/release/6489505 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSN0Pw-xDVI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVfZNvhLwx4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Elxbof0ifs | |
| 11665684 | Smerz | Have Fun | 3 | What’s it sound like? Pitchfork: sounds like something Tove Lo might make if she gave up on making hits and started obsessing over Yeezus and field recordings. Well said. Thoughts Not sure why their nonchalant singing style is so appealing but this is quality mumblecore. Hip young dark bassy electro with chicks saying whatever. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Smerz-Have-Fun/release/11665684 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3B-l9JXMFY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bICuMf3UCzA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpfHVJhb8gs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMH93lUzooQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDmTXWz2cDc Spotify | 1ua8lJy0UubynYUU8AEf8q | 2018 | Synth-pop | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Smerz-Have-Fun/release/11665684 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3B-l9JXMFY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bICuMf3UCzA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpfHVJhb8gs | |||
| 2513594 | Barbara Morgenstern | Fan No. 2 | 2 | What’s it sound like? Synth pop sung primarily in German. Production is a step above diy but this is a 1 woman show though showcases a variety of instrumentation with guitar and proper keys mixed in. Thoughts Authentic German vibes. More than just the lyrics, it has a Berlin soul that I like. An album where the pleasure is from the effort put into the joy of song rather delivering super great pop songs. Ultimately I found the lyrical content lacking, either abstract or just general ruminations (come to Berlin? ), where I wasn't hooked. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Barbara-Morgenstern-Fan-No-2/release/2513594 Listen! Spotify | 4lpvsNMhAJZWQpnULDLfOW | 2010 | Abstract | Experimental | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Barbara-Morgenstern-Fan-No-2/release/2513594 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 3263937 | Lee Morgan | The Gigolo | 3 | What’s it sound like? Swinging Bop Thoughts An all around solid bop outing: ‘Yes I can, no you can't’ starts things off strong with a number of melodic lines and quick tasteful solos from the band. ‘Trapped’ features a nice dueling solo between Lee and the sax player. The self titled track is another good one perhaps best displaying the albums good playing without overdone flair. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-The-Gigolo/release/3263937 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwXIJYNOI4s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMsBCDVXHGc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHtIEMfBhss https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyoRLXBYi00 Spotify | 1FFDkPEmrXZs32SUpU63Sk | 1968 | Hard Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-The-Gigolo/release/3263937 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwXIJYNOI4s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMsBCDVXHGc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHtIEMfBhss | ||||
| 155404 | Emperor Penguin | Shatter The Illusion Of Integrity, Yeah | 3 | What’s it sound like? A band performing the format of an instrumental sample driven hip hop record. Styles range from funk to hip hop to rock Thoughts This is an interesting take on the usually tiresome instrumental beat album. At its best songs are gfunk funky and successfully creates a hazy stoner dusty rich sample atmosphere. Reminds me of the beta band 3 ep's at times, that's a mighty compliment. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Emperor-Penguin-Shatter-The-Illusion-Of-Integrity-Yeah/release/155404 Listen! Spotify | 6InI1UBSUyz6ALk3bLKtYB | 1999 | IDM | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Emperor-Penguin-Shatter-The-Illusion-Of-Integrity-Yeah/release/155404 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 1728088 | Bill Callahan | Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle | 4 | What’s it sound like? Singer songwriter with a full band and string arrangements. Fantastic voice. He's got a somber / sober style, this is the kind of album you'd turn on after a dramatic breakup that took all weekend and now you're walking in the park on a nice autumn day and you just wanna hear something grounding so you turn this on and you realize it's gonna be ok. The world keeps turning. Thoughts I've been meaning to listen to this guy since he's been a favorite of Mark Richardson. I'm impressed. The music is beautiful for a style I wouldn't typically listen to. His lyrics are spot on and share a wealth of knowledge. I plan to visit more. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bill-Callahan-Sometimes-I-Wish-We-Were-An-Eagle/release/1728088 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrYakf2cztM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqUqZDarYi4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3JgYzpyulY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r7D2G6GdPY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NELhSc7Ve3U Spotify | 2009 | Folk Rock | Acoustic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Bill-Callahan-Sometimes-I-Wish-We-Were-An-Eagle/release/1728088 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrYakf2cztM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqUqZDarYi4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3JgYzpyulY | ||||
| 153812 | Emperor Penguin | Extreme Gaming | 2 | What’s it sound like? Indie guitar/drums/keys trio makes record to mimic found sound sample album. Thoughts I'd skip this album and go for their other two,songs feel less finished then the debut. Beats are laid down just kinda hang without real direction, repeating until the tracks end. Gone are the funky keys solos that made their first album so engaging. OK as background listening but for what? More Info https://www.discogs.com/Emperor-Penguin-Extreme-Gaming/release/153812 Listen! Spotify | 1E1muLfRkx69hweer9ec9A | 1999 | IDM | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Emperor-Penguin-Extreme-Gaming/release/153812 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 31019 | Emperor Penguin | Mysterious Pony | 3 | What’s it sound like? A record made by a band as if it's collected from a bunch of older sampled vinyl. Thoughts Starts off with a good energy, drumlines a bit more aggressive and the additional layers now encompass not just keys and guitar but strings, flute, xylophone. Love the dre interlude on burnt sienna! And Stanley Clarke on Playful elements like that make this feel much more well crafted and like a well thought out effort from a band. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Emperor-Penguin-Mysterious-Pony/release/31019 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUIX05mYm10 Spotify | 0A8wvYYwfuaEmhdZZyO1m0 | 2000 | Trip Hop | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Emperor-Penguin-Mysterious-Pony/release/31019 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUIX05mYm10 | |||||
| 11030623 | Future, Young Thug | Super Slimey | 3 | What’s it sound like? Future’s Atlanta stutter trap rap featuring young thug. Thoughts A solid outing, futures flow can get repetitive so it works well when he's sharing a track with someone else. Young thug is going for it here, at times I feel he's putting out too much material and wearing himself thin, preferring quantity to quality, but he clearly worked on these and the result pays off. I say it's a future album cause the production is from futures usual stable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Future-4-Young-Thug-Super-Slimey/release/11030623 Listen! Spotify | 187UNqZ7MX3neMYkkevmdm | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Future-4-Young-Thug-Super-Slimey/release/11030623 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 245053 | Roy Ayers | Virgin Ubiquity (Unreleased Recordings 1976-1981) | 2 | What’s it sound like? Roy Ayers signature funk jazz constructed with pop/r&b vocalists. Thoughts I'm not intimately familiar with his catalog but this veers to the lighter side as an r&b album. I found the singers lacking in personality but roys funk is in full effect. I like the instrumental tracks like green and gold featuring a solo vibraphone. Nothing special, he's got better stuff. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Roy-Ayers-Virgin-Ubiquity-Unreleased-Recordings-1976-1981/release/245053 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bt72RcGgzn8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCp_fpppUU0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV5O5OjqJFw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnF6ETpXpEc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHJY8Y30ANg Spotify | 2004 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Soul | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Roy-Ayers-Virgin-Ubiquity-Unreleased-Recordings-1976-1981/release/245053 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bt72RcGgzn8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCp_fpppUU0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV5O5OjqJFw | ||
| 8361439 | Studio OST | Scenes (2012-2015) | 3 | What’s it sound like? Bassy hip minimal house. Thoughts Galcher lustwerk makes a pretty solid minimal house record. It's not outstanding but I like his style direction and overall sound. This is an accessible introduction to his brand of house. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Studio-OST-Scenes-2012-2015/release/8361439 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbIHYWUXXio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5IpS2YakcQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-3WIiPGncI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi26-q8xfBI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHJIPWTrQTk Spotify | 0yuvnUzfmrTnfIBSqgp03E | 2016 | House | Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Studio-OST-Scenes-2012-2015/release/8361439 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbIHYWUXXio | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5IpS2YakcQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-3WIiPGncI | |||
| 11713797 | Dungen, Woods | Myths 003 | 2 | What’s it sound like? A blend of chilled out indie rock with jammy Psychedelic lean. Thoughts Uneven though OK. I like the morning myth and saint george instrumental track where the jam vibe is in full effect. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dungen-Woods-Myths-003/release/11713797 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cf1IG6kGk6U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpnyVtP4znM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qvvYINjBis Spotify | 2o0daEMrYBytfFLdIX2i45 | 2018 | Psychedelic Rock | Experimental | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Dungen-Woods-Myths-003/release/11713797 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cf1IG6kGk6U | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpnyVtP4znM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qvvYINjBis | |||
| 469451 | The Fall | This Nation's Saving Grace | 4 | What’s it sound like? Dive bar erudite rantings over raw distorted jangly 80s rock Thoughts Might just be the quintessential 80s post-punk album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Fall-This-Nations-Saving-Grace/release/469451 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pdw4o5dCBQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwCZu9O-H0M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZnv_qWExGQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RczxVYZvFis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvPC7-inuyY Spotify | 2QcPIOpOR2sxOqKVXODAhx | 1985 | Post-Punk | Punk | New Wave | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Fall-This-Nations-Saving-Grace/release/469451 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pdw4o5dCBQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwCZu9O-H0M | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZnv_qWExGQ | ||
| 3208941 | John Cale | Paris 1919 | 2 | What’s it sound like? 70s radio rock sung with slight theatric and whimsy. Thoughts A few good tracks but overall not really my style, too soft and focused on lyrics that didn't do it for me. The rockier tracks like Macbeth and Graham Greene are good but that's all I really left with. More Info https://www.discogs.com/John-Cale-Paris-1919/release/3208941 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9IKnVVRsmk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlWeVY64TpU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0gvn5SM7uM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7iLFuapeY8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qydVioHgxGk Spotify | 3WkD4YxRCzgXG2MJF9yDpk | 1973 | Art Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/John-Cale-Paris-1919/release/3208941 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9IKnVVRsmk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlWeVY64TpU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0gvn5SM7uM | ||||
| 11684630 | Deetron | DJ-Kicks | 3 | What’s it sound like? Energetic house mix Thoughts A dynamic mix that builds in intensity. This is decidedly modern house but incorporates a number of styles and takes large influence from 90s golden age. The later half isn't quite as good, track selection trades sexy for energy that I don't particularly like. Ends with a perfect pair. I think this would play well with mature fans looking for something fresh. My one complaint is he hops between styles and songs too frequently, never really settling on anything for longer than a minute. At times this is fun but I do wish some songs would've been stretched out more. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Deetron-DJ-Kicks/release/11684630 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNP-Wkgcyz4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpoXqIRS8Ts https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orpPlKOmi3A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNm241HYnf8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMLO-0Ggchs Spotify | 0w9L6QSahFF1nc5FVXuS8O | 2018 | House | Deep House | Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Deetron-DJ-Kicks/release/11684630 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNP-Wkgcyz4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpoXqIRS8Ts | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orpPlKOmi3A | ||
| 209358 | The Alan Parsons Project | I Robot | 3 | What’s it sound like? Well crafted prog rock, technical and theatrical. Thoughts There's a vision here that's very well done. This is the engineer for Dsotm and Abbey road. The writing is top notch with everything feeling in order. Overall it can be a bit over the top and I like tracks like breakdown which are more straight ahead rock. The voice has a really amazing break, with a funk and string duality (a combo I typically dislike) composed to perfection. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Alan-Parsons-Project-I-Robot/release/209358 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQi-OSXznrY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lgsCe-fLG4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOwFVowEugQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCFqLPwEDU4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJBTOC3Mfpk Spotify | 1zhQKiQIOlYYbPmx1eHDD7 | 1977 | Prog Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Alan-Parsons-Project-I-Robot/release/209358 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQi-OSXznrY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lgsCe-fLG4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOwFVowEugQ | ||||
| 975091 | Bill Callahan | Woke On A Whaleheart | 3 | What’s it sound like? Folksy rock. Chilled out, just being bill. Thoughts This is the 2nd album I've heard of his and I'm thoroughly impressed. The music strikes a great balance between classic freewheeling folk rock and modern indie. He's got a great voice, deep and sure, and is sharing heartfelt but interpretive and relatable lyrics. Not a bad song on it, very accessible. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bill-Callahan-Woke-On-A-Whaleheart/release/975091 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bWuZMSWigg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AFbwnQiq_0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMEq_9e02Qc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txUxo9smBp8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxYgSNg91KM Spotify | 7ct0lnqKqF2OWIRfGjbb1G | 2007 | Alternative Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Bill-Callahan-Woke-On-A-Whaleheart/release/975091 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bWuZMSWigg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AFbwnQiq_0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMEq_9e02Qc | ||||
| 8117868 | Pinegrove | Cardinal | 5 | What’s it sound like? Young alt rock band with personal exploratory singing. Thoughts Pinegrove is one of my favorite new finds over the past few years. Something about this band really just clicks for me. Maybe it's the familiarity of the chord driven songs with lyrics that I connect with. Either way they're entire catalog has gotten repeat listens and is a+. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Pinegrove-Cardinal/release/8117868 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAtGGZjVRdo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbFGMw1mY48 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5N-CdaTYtMQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsJ8iKrWuhA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-Hy56h4_TA Spotify | 2SmrUzUMMOYQqoPuOhlhjw | 2016 | Folk Rock | Indie Rock | Rock | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Pinegrove-Cardinal/release/8117868 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAtGGZjVRdo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbFGMw1mY48 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5N-CdaTYtMQ | |
| 10175309 | Pinegrove | Everything So Far | 5 | What’s it sound like? Alt rock, has a 90s vibe to it. Thoughts Personal favorite band of mine. The songwriting can get repetitive but there's a heartfelt sincerity that's created in their music. The lyrics are key to this feeling, he sings with an uncertainty that illustrates a mature approach to life. I hear someone taking experiences as they come, learning and sharing them. On this collection you hear the band evolving over a couple of albums. The earlier stuff, featured on the later half, is maybe a bit more drawn out, lyrics expanded and unrefined. It's as if an epiphany is explored musically. I find the newer material is a bit more polished and crafted into some very memorable songs. If you like the band then this is a must have. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Pinegrove-Everything-So-Far-/release/10175309 Listen! Spotify | 3CIisDFciv06JbPrZNzNqW | 2017 | Emo | Folk Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Pinegrove-Everything-So-Far-/release/10175309 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 8179177 | Ex-Terrestrial | Paraworld | 2 | What’s it sound like? Spacey pleasant Minimal techno house Thoughts I like this style, reminds me of the orb. Need more chilled out house like this. However I felt no need to revisit. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ex-Terrestrial-Paraworld/release/8179177 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jtilpW7Vpc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQdpTI-FXao https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqyTYngxx9c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdl4nkOISqI Spotify | 7Jr9S3TLyE64nWSlIUOwRB | 2016 | #REF! | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Ex-Terrestrial-Paraworld/release/8179177 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jtilpW7Vpc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQdpTI-FXao | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqyTYngxx9c | ||||
| 11606158 | Ex-Terrestrial | Urth Born | 2 | What’s it sound like? Spacey comedown techno. Thoughts Really just OK and I think I'd like it better in certain settings, ie not on my commute. Water walk is the highlight. Feels very much like a lesser clone of the orb. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ex-Terrestrial-Urth-Born/release/11606158 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iqn1_yqDZPg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM6PKRl8M48 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wczJJIwSSE8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmTQdqw058I Spotify | 0qux0xFTgYwIn1RO6nA6KX | 2018 | Electro | Acid House | Breaks | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Ex-Terrestrial-Urth-Born/release/11606158 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iqn1_yqDZPg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM6PKRl8M48 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wczJJIwSSE8 | ||
| 10589795 | The Motet | Totem | 3 | What’s it sound like? Tight funky jam band Thoughts Good album overall but the second half opens up. The hooks get a little more memorable on jams like so high and danger. The singer is a great, super soulful. Can totally hear krasnows production here, fans of soullive should check this out. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Motet-Totem/release/10589795 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qmzh34o9_XM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6nh_5RfTBI Spotify | 1l7ngvq1SdjIooIRgudCRn | 2016 | Funk | Soul | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/The-Motet-Totem/release/10589795 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qmzh34o9_XM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6nh_5RfTBI | ||||
| 11847674 | Tinashe | Joyride | 3 | What’s it sound like? New r&b, poppy, features rappers Thoughts I like Tinashe, she's got a style that's kinda chilled out and there's a certain genuineness to her music. Songs aren't polished and the album flows kinda like a mixtape. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tinashe-Joyride/release/11847674 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAh7jTAkCKc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaGcPRMY5UM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOfgkkHEcfU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l01cIX_wAt0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN9uAv8Me7w Spotify | 0u3rjsCgagcSxHoRtXMKQo | 2018 | Contemporary R&B | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Tinashe-Joyride/release/11847674 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAh7jTAkCKc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaGcPRMY5UM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOfgkkHEcfU | ||||
| 11883486 | Minami Deutsch | With Dim Light | 3 | What’s it sound like? Mostly instrumental jammy repetitive chord driven krautrock-like Thoughts Good not great modern krautrock. I've seen a UFO could've been a CAN track and kicks the 2nd half off for the better as the guitar solos get a bit more interesting and its more proper kraut. Bitter moon evolves nicely starting acoustically into a explorative guitar solo. They're effective at creating textures so I'd say it succeeds musically but a little boring at times. Probably need to spend a bit more time with this one. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Minami-Deutsch-With-Dim-Light/release/11883486 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNhMiF90P-A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJfu90SPkXI Spotify | 3wwekcTBtkPsUWqlCks95B | 2018 | Krautrock | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Minami-Deutsch-With-Dim-Light/release/11883486 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNhMiF90P-A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJfu90SPkXI | ||||
| 884704 | Harmonia | Musik Von Harmonia | 5 | What’s it sound like? Krautrock with synths: styles ranges from ambient to bouncy. Thoughts Great album, these tracks have a nice flow due to the repetitive expansiveness the jammy krautrock allows. A range of styles are on display which makes this an engaging listen: from the fun bouncy dino, semi ambient on sehr komisch. Watussi got heavy play on WFMU. Chilled out guitar on ahoi, hasn't aged a bit and would sound just as good on a recent release. Veterano is jammy excellence. All around krautrock classic. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Harmonia-Musik-Von-Harmonia/release/884704 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhXOQxN9HAo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIkN8DnYh9E Spotify | 3Jyh6Yc38WaDFATs9krqXz | 1974 | Krautrock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Harmonia-Musik-Von-Harmonia/release/884704 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhXOQxN9HAo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIkN8DnYh9E | ||||
| 11954934 | DJ Koze | Knock Knock | 3 | What’s it sound like? DJ koze's undeniable house - quizzical hip hop beats meet German techno. Thoughts As much as I want to call every Koze release essential (seriously kozela thank you for the music) I think he's at his best as a remixer. This album has some great peaks ( baby, planet hase, pick up) and the rest is solid. But Koze has operated at a master level that isn't necessarily shown here. I do like the g-funk flourishes on the opener and Jesus. Great album, sunny drunk. More Info https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Koze-Knock-Knock/release/11954934 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JE63vMzb3UE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MczfNRvzl04 Spotify | 0sT4nyNxsvGNQr1O8OR83O | 2018 | Downtempo | Experimental | House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Koze-Knock-Knock/release/11954934 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JE63vMzb3UE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MczfNRvzl04 | |||
| 6843280 | Yung Wu | Shore Leave | 2 | What’s it sound like? Jangly 80s college rock. Thoughts An extension of the feelies, it's a bit more chilled out than the feelies records I'm familiar with. Enjoyable but not essential, fans of the genre would enjoy but otherwise stick to the feelies. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Yung-Wu-Shore-Leave/release/6843280 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WabWuXBhyPg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPyZBOEeVms https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-PKUFlTmjo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K51WgZtrrfY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XO8OzaGpYBg Spotify | 0kgOXYnIGQ9oG9rL8yG73E | 1987 | #VALUE! | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Yung-Wu-Shore-Leave/release/6843280 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WabWuXBhyPg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPyZBOEeVms | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-PKUFlTmjo | ||||
| 152653 | Material | Secret Life | 3 | What’s it sound like? 80s punky jam art rock Thoughts Interesting and full of energy, slightly abrasive at times which gives it a nice edge. Sounds like a number of things from the era but manages to carve a distinct sound. Little in the way of structure, seems a whole bunch of noodling thrown at basic hi hat rushes and bass lines, at times flea funky or punky. Not a perfect album, the later tracks aren't as strong, this is still an interesting predecessor to modern dance punk like LCD Soundsystem. Draws from 80s talking heads at their most stoned. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Material-Secret-Life/release/152653 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bZ8GyykqcE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6UlJGZp7ww https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gAeVNm-5FQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC_me4oNDkA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_P0lSNm0628 Spotify | 3PMOXXLIPQmzUVQGbz2Cmw | 1986 | Experimental | Disco | Electronic | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Material-Secret-Life/release/152653 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bZ8GyykqcE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6UlJGZp7ww | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gAeVNm-5FQ | |
| 11880745 | Drinks | Hippo Lite | 2 | What’s it sound like? Bare indie art rock Thoughts I like it, backended with simple guitar chords or melodies, the album seems to float through a variety of ideas. Vocals typically repeat a catchy mantra of some sort. Deliberately strange, the album gets a little tired and pretentious towards the end, nothing I really want to come back to. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Drinks-Hippo-Lite/release/11880745 Listen! Spotify | 6V9c46US2xiiS6iFmnj7WV | 2018 | Indie Rock | Post-Punk | Leftfield | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Drinks-Hippo-Lite/release/11880745 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 9193213 | Maynard Ferguson Octet | Maynard Ferguson And His Octet | 2 | What’s it sound like? Big band with impressive trumpet Thoughts Just fine if big band is your thing More Info https://www.discogs.com/Maynard-Ferguson-Octet-Maynard-Ferguson-And-His-Octet/release/9193213 Listen! Spotify | 1955 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Maynard-Ferguson-Octet-Maynard-Ferguson-And-His-Octet/release/9193213 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 1868589 | Uptown Funk Empire | The Empire Strikes Back | 2 | What’s it sound like? A modern update on classic funk, afrobeat with a disco vibe. Kinda like jamiroquai. Thoughts A little too polished and not raw enough, sounds good and like the modern touches but think it lacked something. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Uptown-Funk-Empire-The-Empire-Strikes-Back/release/1868589 Listen! Spotify | 6ycQA4ojDK42MXqeQth3Ng | 2009 | Funk | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Uptown-Funk-Empire-The-Empire-Strikes-Back/release/1868589 | #REF! | ||||||
| 5328998 | Duke Ellington And His Orchestra | Ellington Uptown | 2 | What’s it sound like? Big band / swing Thoughts Not really my thing but ode to Harlem is amazing. Take the a-train is an obvious classic too though I prefer covers of it. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Duke-Ellington-And-His-Orchestra-Ellington-Uptown/release/5328998 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDVZdZMCc0w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSwaAiWA9lo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dthGrehkuEk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7xCnhEYk9U Spotify | 1951 | Post Bop | Swing | Cool Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Duke-Ellington-And-His-Orchestra-Ellington-Uptown/release/5328998 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDVZdZMCc0w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSwaAiWA9lo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dthGrehkuEk | |||
| 10474639 | Funkadelic | Tales Of Kidd Funkadelic | 4 | What’s it sound like? Funkadelic Thoughts Apparently this is a set of b sides from the funkadelic era which makes this a must hear. I think it's as good as anything from that legendary run of their core records even if it's lacking a cohesive concept. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Funkadelic-Tales-Of-Kidd-Funkadelic/release/10474639 Listen! Spotify | 44TtzXFitwmm3ysH3n8sHw | 1976 | P.Funk | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Funkadelic-Tales-Of-Kidd-Funkadelic/release/10474639 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 6358953 | Gene Harris | Instant Party | 2 | What’s it sound like? Light groovy jazz Thoughts Great playing is on display here but I didn't find anything that memorable. This would work well as jazzy daytime background music. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Gene-Harris-Instant-Party/release/6358953 Listen! Spotify | 11VJWwWJWJtVsoqmPH4Cl5 | 2004 | Jazz-Funk | Soul-Jazz | Jazz | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Gene-Harris-Instant-Party/release/6358953 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 10805103 | Bambooman,Kirk Barley | Bambooman – Whispers | 2 | What’s it sound like? An assortment of left field electro Thoughts I found the interludes Frost and melt interesting in their organic percussive approach. Static is a good one, Koze like. Guests on side one felt generic and uninspired, play it safe electro pop. The second half is much better opening up into more exploratory left field ideas. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bambooman-Kirk-Barley-Bambooman--Whispers/release/10805103 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My3aM5OrVbY Spotify | 2017 | Experimental | Abstract | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Bambooman-Kirk-Barley-Bambooman--Whispers/release/10805103 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My3aM5OrVbY | ||||||
| 1358782 | Alanis Morissette | Jagged Little Pill | 5 | What’s it sound like? The best of 90s radio alt rock. Thoughts A very important record to me, I could not stop listening to this when it came out in the summer of 1995. I know I wasn't alone cause it was played constantly on the radio. It's an important part of the development of my musical taste. However even without that attachment the record has some all-out classics and otherwise great songs. Her lyrics are as the title would suggest, jagged. She's observant and articulate which is why I think this has such universal love. The lyrics are highly memorable. Her songs often employ a juxtaposed approach: aggressive and then a quiet 'innocent' moment. It creates a dynamic aspect to her tracks Instrumentation- love the textures, where was that bassline in the original master of you oughta know? There's an interesting drum-loop like thing happening there. It appears again on you learn, giving a slight hip hop like bounce. Overall a perfect balance of alt and grunge textures in the singer-songwriter space. Her vocal range is impressive and perhaps best on display on forgiven. Perfect is over the top in it's forced emotion around bad parenting. An enjoyable trip down memory lane that stands the test of time. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Alanis-Morissette-Jagged-Little-Pill/release/1358782 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPcyTyilmYY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8v9yUVgrmPY Spotify | 09AwlP99cHfKVNKv4FC8VW | 1995 | Alternative Rock | Acoustic | Pop Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Alanis-Morissette-Jagged-Little-Pill/release/1358782 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPcyTyilmYY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8v9yUVgrmPY | |||
| 11025485 | Lindstrøm | It's Alright Between Us As It Is | 3 | What’s it sound like? Future italio disco Thoughts This is good! I've generally been a fan of his productions but here he's making Todd Terje’s nu-disco thing sexy and cool. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lindstr%C3%B8m-Its-Alright-Between-Us-As-It-Is/release/11025485 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y0Jb5-yQBc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX11walu4eE Spotify | 44FcObMDShneMqmiATghu2 | 2017 | Nu-Disco | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Lindstr%C3%B8m-Its-Alright-Between-Us-As-It-Is/release/11025485 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y0Jb5-yQBc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX11walu4eE | ||||
| 10661808 | Valee,Chase The Money | VTM | 1 | What’s it sound like? Disinterested generic rapping over amateur boomy beats. Thoughts If you're not paying attention this sounds OK, I like the 'removed' vibe, but if you listen too close it falls apart. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Valee-CHASETHEMONEY-VTM/release/10661808 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaBcJTj1HlE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhjHCjMHOz8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Wht2DCsEc0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S7F7ZWyR4I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzQ0rkiZvcQ Spotify | 2017 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Valee-CHASETHEMONEY-VTM/release/10661808 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaBcJTj1HlE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhjHCjMHOz8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Wht2DCsEc0 | |||||
| 11925490 | Buzzy Lee | Facepaint EP | 3 | What’s it sound like? Female pop singer fronting a band an indie adult contemporary band. Thoughts Good, poppy and catchy. Very 'OK' More Info https://www.discogs.com/Buzzy-Lee-Facepaint-EP/release/11925490 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPIPT8WEm3A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7GQARF-zAs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsgL3sAAMHM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-TtzabJWyQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Fzv3U2SAqk Spotify | 2018 | Indie Pop | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Buzzy-Lee-Facepaint-EP/release/11925490 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPIPT8WEm3A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7GQARF-zAs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsgL3sAAMHM | |||||
| 7549268 | Neil Young | Dead Man | 2 | What’s it sound like? Textural guitar noodling by Young Thoughts It's kind of unfair reviewing this as its a soundtrack but whatever, doesn't really work as say standalone album. Half of it is corny dialogue that's skipable. The 6 guitar solos are interesting on a superficial level but nothing very memorable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Neil-Young-Dead-Man/release/7549268 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi-S9lrnLZ8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jx3ajYfbzcw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dH9nY-b7jbc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsDAf5jCUYU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbOOEzp17Ec Spotify | 57GBZQjetaMLHU24bJMHqv | 1996 | Soundtrack | Lo-Fi | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | Stage & Screen | https://www.discogs.com/Neil-Young-Dead-Man/release/7549268 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi-S9lrnLZ8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jx3ajYfbzcw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dH9nY-b7jbc | |
| 12102645 | Playboi Carti | Die Lit | 3 | What’s it sound like? Repetitive mumble raps ( I guess this is trap) over youthful production. It's got that emo teen vibe uzi has - I really like the sound. Thoughts This is great. I don't see the album having any lasting replayability but in 2018 it works. Feels like it's a continued progression of the 'not really saying anything' lyricism but proves that content isn't needed if it's catchy. With that in mind this is a true reflection of the times and communication: the message doesn't matter as long as it looks or sounds a certain way. He's also got some impressive guest spots who adapt to his style and flow. I find this telling about his relevance as he's pulling big names into his orbit. I think the mistake someone could make is approaching this as a traditional rap album. His style is so drastically different than say illmatic that we need to see it as a purely aesthetic piece and consider it differently. In that way it succeeds massively. Creating something original that's just throwing constant rhythmic hooks at you. It's almost as if you're listening to a warm-up session where they're just feeling out the beat trying to flow, not working on the perfect verse. I see a lot of followers from this. He's actually at his worse in the middle of the album when he's speaking clearly. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Playboi-Carti-Die-Lit/release/12102645 Listen! Spotify | 7dAm8ShwJLFm9SaJ6Yc58O | 2018 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Playboi-Carti-Die-Lit/release/12102645 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 2030041 | Blanketship | Klangwunder / The Sound Of Fun Surrounds You | 3 | What’s it sound like? Vintage jazz rock meets found sound DJ Thoughts Pretty good, forward thinking collage of lots of different sounds. The second record, klangwunder, was a bit more uneven and sporadic sounding. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Blanketship-Klangwunder-The-Sound-Of-Fun-Surrounds-You/release/2030041 Listen! Spotify | 192l5IJWDpcHcEFCj8cnkV | 2009 | Leftfield | Abstract | Experimental | Electronic | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Blanketship-Klangwunder-The-Sound-Of-Fun-Surrounds-You/release/2030041 | #VALUE! | ||
| 12284285 | Pusha T | Daytona | 3 | What’s it sound like? Some of the best modern rap Thoughts A+ kanye production, like he's somehow worked in all his best attributes (soul samples, modern industrial electro) and gave him to pusha t. Pusha keeps getting better. Still talking a lot about drugs but it's more approachable. Fewer choruses and more focus on the raps, great verses all around for him. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Pusha-T-Daytona/release/12284285 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJzFSxe__fg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j98tczxXKtE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEEAqPMSZqU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SkMJqlZ6Y0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2wExTBpPAI Spotify | 07bIdDDe3I3hhWpxU6tuBp | 2018 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Pusha-T-Daytona/release/12284285 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJzFSxe__fg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j98tczxXKtE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEEAqPMSZqU | ||||
| 11985825 | Beach House | 7 | 3 | What’s it sound like? Electro rock. Spacey and ethereal at times, trip hop like. Thoughts Reminds me of the electro rock blonde redhead was popular for like 10 years ago but with better songwriting. Revisiting this a month or two later, really haven't found a lot to come back to. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Beach-House-7/release/11985825 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRBEc4GP7cY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yoBbTqnCPA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-eBDrE25ec https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08qd-vsHbaY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dyclbb_6Ycs Spotify | 4qftBBO7pnYlek3mRENIvM | 2018 | Indie Pop | Indie Rock | Dream Pop | Electronic | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Beach-House-7/release/11985825 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRBEc4GP7cY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yoBbTqnCPA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-eBDrE25ec |
| 7296774 | Ryo Fukui | Scenery | 5 | What’s it sound like? Proper Jazz piano trio Thoughts Solid and highly accessible jazz album. A mix of originals and standards, each feels perfect. Lyrical playing and agile without feeling over the top. Recommended. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ryo-Fukui-Scenery2/release/7296774 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hrr3dp7zRQY Spotify | 2005 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Ryo-Fukui-Scenery2/release/7296774 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hrr3dp7zRQY | |||||||
| 6294763 | It's A Beautiful Day | Live At The Fillmore '68 | 2 | What’s it sound like? Lively 60s rock band (think dead and the band) with strings. Thoughts It's OK but overall they aren't up to their peers. I think this would've been a blast live but doesn't hold up to the test of time. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Its-A-Beautiful-Day-Live-At-The-Fillmore-68/release/6294763 Listen! Spotify | 2013 | Classic Rock | Country Rock | Folk Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Its-A-Beautiful-Day-Live-At-The-Fillmore-68/release/6294763 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 8160913 | Grand River | Wers | 3 | What’s it sound like? Hip sexy modern electro. Thoughts Good borderline generic electro. I like what's she's doing and has a good ear for a trendy accessible bounce here. Has a fun summer vibe. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Grand-River-Wers/release/8160913 Listen! Spotify | 1qGVB8Rg08DIVPSVw8ajJ9 | 2014 | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Grand-River-Wers/release/8160913 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 10925592 | Grand River | Crescente | 2 | What’s it sound like? Modern intellectual compositional ambient like electro. Thoughts Well crafted with enjoyable moments but overall dull and drifting. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Grand-River-Crescente/release/10925592 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTmkokJ9mjk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzUXPojB9do https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9dmlqFyWhU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVIs9v0CxPw Spotify | 2017 | Techno | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Grand-River-Crescente/release/10925592 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTmkokJ9mjk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzUXPojB9do | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9dmlqFyWhU | ||||
| 11980014 | Carla Bozulich | Quieter | 2 | What’s it sound like? Drifting experimental singer, range of styles and sounds. Ambient and dark. Thoughts I like something about this but as a straight document it didn't really resonate with me. Felt it drifted too much and never delivered on impactful moments. Marc Ribot's guitar was a fitting texture, I'd be curious to hear other collaborations between them. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Carla-Bozulich-Quieter/release/11980014 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WAYbglh3os Spotify | 7GIgQMFvK5eMYJQf541xPr | 2018 | Experimental | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Carla-Bozulich-Quieter/release/11980014 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WAYbglh3os | ||||||
| 11768093 | Will DiMaggio | At Ease | 4 | What’s it sound like? Happy left field electro. Discogs calls this future jazz which I'll need to check out. Has a funky sort've new world vibe to it, cool pan flute sound. Thoughts This is really good, fresh and original sound. He successfully builds on the retro la-funk that's been so popular lately. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Will-DiMaggio-At-Ease/release/11768093 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtjQ1t76J1w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaZnsHKYmHo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMgO38z_I_4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LckT6sOZpM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3utnohHvDw Spotify | 1eFfzlOEg26ZWWqSEF16R9 | 2018 | Deep House | Future Jazz | Techno | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Will-DiMaggio-At-Ease/release/11768093 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtjQ1t76J1w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaZnsHKYmHo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMgO38z_I_4 | |
| 12154864 | Princess Nokia | A Girl Cried Red | 4 | What’s it sound like? Rapper meets bedroom singer songwriter Thoughts This feels like the voice of the 'youtube' generation we've been waiting for. She's pulling from a lot of familiar styles but the album carries the emotional honesty of a fragile teenager matched with a tasteful worldly hip hop backdrop. Another one of these recent culture vultures who has taken in her surroundings and turned them into something new. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Princess-Nokia-A-Girl-Cried-Red/release/12154864 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VMg7y5esQg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87Cjow9lO2U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xb75FxeM8fY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-F4vc5hLZI Spotify | 1JYNtnpIIG9hSsZ5ULzBxL | 2018 | Emo | Electronic | Hip Hop | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Princess-Nokia-A-Girl-Cried-Red/release/12154864 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VMg7y5esQg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87Cjow9lO2U | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xb75FxeM8fY | ||
| 1363130 | John Cale,Terry Riley | Church Of Anthrax | 4 | What’s it sound like? Experimental 60s psychedelic pop jams Thoughts Highly recommended and fruitful collaboration between these two legends. I'd describe this as the Grateful Dead meets the VU at their most experimental. Top-notch instrumentation and songwriting. While it has a jam vibe it never wanders too far into noodling territory. I need to revisit this more, seems as if it would reward repeat listening. More Info https://www.discogs.com/John-Cale-Terry-Riley-Church-Of-Anthrax/release/1363130 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_xqlQ2Bw1Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C4rjdUO20A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHv7M0o_OL8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGK1cNaJSfE Spotify | 1971 | Modern Classical | Abstract | Minimal | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/John-Cale-Terry-Riley-Church-Of-Anthrax/release/1363130 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_xqlQ2Bw1Y | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C4rjdUO20A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHv7M0o_OL8 | ||
| 1603486 | Little Joy | Little Joy | 3 | What’s it sound like? A west-coast chilled out version of the strokes Thoughts A gem, perfect little beach acoustic record.Nothing extraordinary but a positive vibe like a precious local band at an outdoor spot. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Little-Joy-Little-Joy/release/1603486 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBMFY3h5Hxs Spotify | 6uoMTt6m0GlGFASfdfEIVE | 2008 | Alternative Rock | Indie Rock | Rock | Latin | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Little-Joy-Little-Joy/release/1603486 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBMFY3h5Hxs | |||
| 261830 | Ween | The Mollusk | 4 | What’s it sound like? Prog rock meets sea shanties Thoughts Not usually a fan of goofy concept records but the songwriting is impressive here. Reminds me of super furry animals at times, enjoyable listen. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ween-The-Mollusk/release/261830 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5K_w9Tbhoc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpGrI34a_fM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cs926AIL-ck https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7P0fEvKrsA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzIHkFJnLbc Spotify | 1yfJqxKKXG320vhqLfUEeC | 1997 | Alternative Rock | Synth-pop | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Ween-The-Mollusk/release/261830 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5K_w9Tbhoc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpGrI34a_fM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cs926AIL-ck | ||
| 12004855 | Slow Mass | On Watch | 4 | What’s it sound like? Varied punk: quiet personal songs to pop to post-hardcore. Thoughts I dig the dynamic nature of this band who is able to accomplish hardcore as well as personal moments. True post-hardcore (emo) revivalists, this reminds me a lot of bands I grew up listening to in the 90's. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Slow-Mass-On-Watch/release/12004855 Listen! Spotify | 2mDnee8BpXtRKqK4vfWi0Y | 2018 | Post-Hardcore | Punk | Folk | Rock | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Slow-Mass-On-Watch/release/12004855 | #VALUE! | ||
| 8692739 | Terry Riley,Don Cherry,Karl Berger | Köln – February 23, 1975 | 4 | What’s it sound like? Spiritual organ and trumpet Thoughts A patient but effective piece of minimal spiritual jazz. Cherry's trumpet playing is in top form with expansive but delicate solos (interesting in this context as I associate him with avant garde dissonance). Descending moonshine dervishes is the highlight as the two seem most in sync with Riley's organ solos building into tasteful melodic lines that cherry tastefully solos over. I heard this on the YouTube version which I think is incorrect. Sunrise of the planetary collective sees Riley playing solo on a more electric keyboard that provides an ominous tone. Koln improv falls somewhere in the middle with cherry returning but the keys continuing in their electric sound. Less spiritual, more jazz. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Terry-Riley-Don-Cherry-Karl-Berger-K%C3%B6ln-February-23-1975/release/8692739 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6449e2LsUI Spotify | 2016 | #VALUE! | Jazz | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/Terry-Riley-Don-Cherry-Karl-Berger-K%C3%B6ln-February-23-1975/release/8692739 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6449e2LsUI | ||||||
| 1373131 | Linda Perhacs | Parallelograms | 3 | What’s it sound like? 60/70s folk. It's described as psychedelic folk, maybe a bit spooky but this feels pretty pure especially when compared with today's genres. Thoughts A classic folk record. Folk only goes so deep for me but this is well crafted music. She's got a pleasant singing voice, engaging and honest. There's a captivating quality that reminds me of Nick Drake's softness. Guitar is high in the mix and lifts her voice. Songwriting is impeccable with memorable melodies and lyrics. Any fans of the genre should seek this out. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Linda-Perhacs-Parallelograms/release/1373131 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9VbJmbtMW8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXBd-SjQxpQ Spotify | 53cxrg7kbFQxDizY0kcDQo | 1970 | Folk Rock | Acoustic | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Linda-Perhacs-Parallelograms/release/1373131 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9VbJmbtMW8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXBd-SjQxpQ | |
| 264527 | Terry Riley | Happy Ending | 3 | What’s it sound like? Distinctive Terry Riley side 1: solo keys side 2: sax takes focus and organ raises Thoughts Two very different halves in explorations of minimalism. The keys in journey from the death of a friend is an engaging solo work of Terry riley though it doesn't cover a lot of ground or offer much to revisit. Happy ending, side 2, is a prime piece of spiritual jazz with a consistent sax line that's contrasted against a set of keys and pianos. It changes shape successfully, conjuring up an array of emotions before building to joy when the piano kicks in at the end. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Terry-Riley-Happy-Ending/release/264527 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tS7LqX1J1ks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCcvQ-QeJUs Spotify | 1972 | Minimal | Soundtrack | Electronic | Stage & Screen | https://www.discogs.com/Terry-Riley-Happy-Ending/release/264527 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tS7LqX1J1ks | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCcvQ-QeJUs | ||||
| 8147085 | Heron Oblivion | Heron Oblivion | 3 | What’s it sound like? A modern psychedelic version of crazy horse Thoughts Rocking, reminds me a lot of a psychedelic crazy horse. Has a modern feel, leveraging dark pop like blonde redhead 23. The long crunchy distorted guitar lines add a layer of texture not often found in modern rock. Think that's what makes this so distinct and memorable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Heron-Oblivion-Heron-Oblivion/release/8147085 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuZKXaVsDco https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNgij4jBNJI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7Lqke-XA_4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuuF9Qc02s0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8AskJpLs9A Spotify | 4r7KSz5LOtTy7UBh9LUGNy | 2016 | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Heron-Oblivion-Heron-Oblivion/release/8147085 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuZKXaVsDco | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNgij4jBNJI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7Lqke-XA_4 | ||||
| 5082339 | Sandy Bull | E Pluribus Unum | 2 | What’s it sound like? Bluesy/psychedelic/Americana hardcore string noodling Thoughts I like the sound, gonna check out more by this guy, but not interested in repeat listens of this.The no deposit no return blues almost breaks into greatness but stays simmering just wave after wave of noodling, never really going anywhere. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sandy-Bull-E-Pluribus-Unum/release/5082339 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po8f4dSXgMA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRqJ8c7QkRI Spotify | 5Zmzb2zjf5l7L7O9o3exYa | 1969 | Acoustic | Psychedelic Rock | Jazz | Rock | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Sandy-Bull-E-Pluribus-Unum/release/5082339 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po8f4dSXgMA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRqJ8c7QkRI | ||
| 703500 | Sonic Youth | Experimental Jet Set, Trash And No Star | 2 | What’s it sound like? jagged raw indie rock Thoughts An OK record, likely one of their more accessible and it's interesting hearing them in this stripped down setting as they aren't one for 'pop' formats. Falls short of something good in my opinion. Daydream Nation remains my one and only sonic youth album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sonic-Youth-Experimental-Jet-Set-Trash-And-No-Star/release/703500 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JGBNkLM9_8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEL-6m_6vKQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NNjdYfmRE4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQgO6EHnQRo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruQmod6sAWY Spotify | 3O8NuSnjHy8wiBqbG6N4yO | 1994 | Noise | Indie Rock | Alternative Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Sonic-Youth-Experimental-Jet-Set-Trash-And-No-Star/release/703500 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JGBNkLM9_8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEL-6m_6vKQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NNjdYfmRE4 | ||
| 213193 | MF Doom | Operation: Doomsday | 5 | What’s it sound like? MF Doom's distinct style over production that samples a variety of soul and jazz; kinda like a choppy J Dilla. Allmusic has more: Doom was at his rawest and, lyrically, most dexterous. The out-of-left-field edge of Doom's production -- which features '80s soul and smooth jazz mixed with classic drum breaks -- is indeed abstract at times, but his off-kilter rhymes are palatable and absent any pretentiousness. In fact, the album arguably contains some of the freshest rhymes one might have heard around the time of its release. Thoughts Doom's style certainly isn't for everyone but the more I see rap evolve the more I realize just how remarkable his distinct style is. Not much to add to the allmusic review. This album is raw - both lyrically and production wise. His raps are dense, he's clearly an intelligent guy, switching topics quickly; a tactic which rewards repeat listens. Something about his delivery reminds me of Wutang, a rare quality. The production works well and I'm not mad at the super-hero interludes. A true classic. More Info https://www.discogs.com/MF-Doom-Operation-Doomsday/release/213193 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkWCtThxW9s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSMgjBbmjWk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60uP9kG2rZo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL5cun2kQ6M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRHyBwNtkLA Spotify | 4UG3kz6qoHtNI1glQ2wdon | 1999 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/MF-Doom-Operation-Doomsday/release/213193 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkWCtThxW9s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSMgjBbmjWk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60uP9kG2rZo | ||||
| 8001396 | Chairlift | Moth | 3 | What’s it sound like? Slick modern synth pop with a good female singer Thoughts Good for a light pop record, reminded me of that grouper album I like. However it was lacking substance and inconsistent. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Chairlift-Moth/release/8001396 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWSFlqBOgl8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CncbXK6vURA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ3h0ZA3FQ0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QfUuVyJlbg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReUJxM-d0iE Spotify | 4j7QJ7DKZ0cBsNuD7GmJFx | 2016 | Alternative Rock | Indie Rock | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Chairlift-Moth/release/8001396 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWSFlqBOgl8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CncbXK6vURA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ3h0ZA3FQ0 | ||
| 12216605 | Gorillaz | The Now Now | 2 | What’s it sound like? Damon albarn's brand of fun and funky synth pop Thoughts I'll always like returning to this cartoon dream of the gorillaz but I feel the songwriting just hasn't been on the same level it was on the earlier albums. There's a few good tracks, snoop continues to work well as a Gorillaz guest, but not sure I'll revisit this one much. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Gorillaz-The-Now-Now/release/12216605 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5yFcdPAGv0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCbuxFKTVdc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgwE94KZJ7E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skKP6QwOXYA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40xG4bMr9F4 Spotify | 1amYhlukNF8WdaQC3gKkgL | 2018 | Funk | New Wave | Alternative Rock | Rock | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Gorillaz-The-Now-Now/release/12216605 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5yFcdPAGv0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCbuxFKTVdc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgwE94KZJ7E | |
| 3366636 | Steely Dan | Aja | 5 | What’s it sound like? Intellectual light radio rock Thoughts I've begun to appreciate Steely Dan more as I grow older. Their brand of breezy light rock with this lingering darkness appeals to me. They capture life's disappointments in a distinct way, as if they're always sitting on the border of being cheesy; like an inside joke at times. Is this Satire? Humor aside, this is really catchy pop rock with articulate and relatable lyrics. A classic rock staple. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Steely-Dan-Aja/release/3366636 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34woJAQZZY8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCtSa0exAH0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0hbpDTZ0pk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muuiucO_Cog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qsUaNAbt6A Spotify | 51XjnQQ9SR8VSEpxPO9vrW | 1977 | Jazz-Funk | Pop Rock | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Steely-Dan-Aja/release/3366636 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34woJAQZZY8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCtSa0exAH0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0hbpDTZ0pk | ||
| 12334803 | Let's Eat Grandma | I'm All Ears | 2 | What’s it sound like? indie synth pop Thoughts Lacking the interesting diversity of their debut this is more slick and refined. A bit boring with the exception of a few moments (donnie darko is great). I find it cool their working with sophie for production but didn't fruitful of a collaboration here. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lets-Eat-Grandma-Im-All-Ears/release/12334803 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8FoJjlxlmY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdzTmyV3M0g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGVv7SQ_jus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXUVQfleU0o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycL6V3W956w Spotify | 2018 | Experimental | Indie Pop | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Lets-Eat-Grandma-Im-All-Ears/release/12334803 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8FoJjlxlmY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdzTmyV3M0g | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGVv7SQ_jus | |||
| 4786346 | Bush Tetras | Boom In The Night (Original Studio Recordings 1980-1983) | 4 | What’s it sound like? New York's version of early Clash: dark and divey. Thoughts This is a great record, right up there with other punk and post-punk of the era. At times they can sound like more modern dance punk but with a refreshing straight-forwardness that I think is lost in current bands. I mention the clash because they incorporate a world/dub sound that I think the clash does so well. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bush-Tetras-Boom-In-The-Night-Original-Studio-Recordings-1980-1983/release/4786346 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hwHy_e92uQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AY8Td6sZvSA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63t_egLuo1A Spotify | 2013 | New Wave | Punk | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Bush-Tetras-Boom-In-The-Night-Original-Studio-Recordings-1980-1983/release/4786346 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hwHy_e92uQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AY8Td6sZvSA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63t_egLuo1A | ||||
| 713533 | Chris Bell | I Am The Cosmos | 2 | What’s it sound like? Straightforward 70s pop-rock like big star. Thoughts A little soft lyrically, his natural whine a bit off-putting. Rockier numbers like ‘I got kinda lost’ are great. Felt it was missing something, guess Alex Chilton is needed. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Chris-Bell-I-Am-The-Cosmos/release/713533 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-yvdIHOdxw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhsk-3G4RRY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRx_xxtPmWY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kR594Kkxmzg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpJkRdmAC-0 Spotify | 7a7Lzqu4AuMHVtCPkxASay | 1992 | Folk Rock | Power Pop | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Chris-Bell-I-Am-The-Cosmos/release/713533 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-yvdIHOdxw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhsk-3G4RRY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRx_xxtPmWY | |||
| 11952906 | Arctic Monkeys | Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino | 2 | What’s it sound like? an indie rock band doing drunk late night lounge Thoughts Remarkably different than I remember the arctic monkeys, there's something intriguing about the direction. After reading the wikipedia its clear Alex Turner is clearly inspired by all the right people. Production is gorgeous with that modern style where everything is turned up in the mix and makes for a rich listen. I think the lyrics are the weak point: self indulgent, forced poetry that's trying too hard to be weird. Its not bad but at best like a cult record I'll enjoy as passive listening; unnecessary at worst. I want to love this record, and believe I haven't given it the full chance, but after two listens it still hadn't set in. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Arctic-Monkeys-Tranquility-Base-Hotel-Casino/release/11952906 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXuUAtAtMtM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71Es-8FfATo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uGQ_ypTw08 Spotify | 1jeMiSeSnNS0Oys375qegp | 2018 | Indie Rock | Alternative Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Arctic-Monkeys-Tranquility-Base-Hotel-Casino/release/11952906 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXuUAtAtMtM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71Es-8FfATo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uGQ_ypTw08 | |||
| 6587647 | Shocking Blue | At Home | 3 | What’s it sound like? Taken from popmatters: the Shocking Blue seem like they set out to be the Dutch Jefferson Airplane, with acid-rock guitar, a full-throated Grace Slick wannabe in Veres, eclectic instrumentation, and semi-hallucinatory lyrics about free love, voodoo, California, and the like. But unlike the Airplane, the Shocking Blue never succumb to pretentiousness through either diffuse experimentation or ponderous songwriting. Instead the band churns out pseudo-psychedelic bubblegum, with all the precision and eagerness to please. Thoughts I like this, it's like well written 60s psychadelica played efficiently by totally sober people. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Shocking-Blue-At-Home/release/6587647 Listen! Spotify | 2vbAImlNuDjPBMdU6T1oRQ | 1969 | Pop Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Shocking-Blue-At-Home/release/6587647 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 2786153 | Karen Dalton | In My Own Time | 4 | What’s it sound like? 60s folk rock Thoughts Interesting listen, a set of covers by a distinct voice who straddles the line between folk, rock, and country. She brings a distinctive touch to each, making them sound fully like her own songs. I like the tracks backee by a band ( in my own dream, one night of love) but she does well in more stripped down solo moments too. Great songwriting mixed with a great singer makes for a great record, recommended. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Karen-Dalton-In-My-Own-Time/release/2786153 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFAdU9TC3uI Spotify | 1OuzXj4yo7VyBKwHZhxEnW | 1971 | Folk | Country Blues | Blues | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Karen-Dalton-In-My-Own-Time/release/2786153 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFAdU9TC3uI | |||
| 4452734 | Leo Kottke,Mike Gordon | Sixty Six Steps | 2 | What’s it sound like? Technically proficient guitar (x2?), drum acoustic trio. Thoughts Hokey, clean blue grass. Instrumentation is great, lyrics are crap; couldn't get into it. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Leo-Kottke-Mike-Gordon-Sixty-Six-Steps/release/4452734 Listen! Spotify | 2005 | #VALUE! | Folk | World | & Country | https://www.discogs.com/Leo-Kottke-Mike-Gordon-Sixty-Six-Steps/release/4452734 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 407278 | Yeah Yeah Yeahs | Fever To Tell | 4 | What’s it sound like? Crunchy punky early aughts NYC indie rock. Thoughts Fantastic album. Short potent songs that capture a jagged balance of guitar and Karen O's strength as a leader. Feels like a seminal LES album of the times. Cleaner than NY in the 80s but still a bit dirty. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Yeah-Yeah-Yeahs-Fever-To-Tell/release/407278 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIIxlgcuQRU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26wxdvLIiJ8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcjPFAV1foU Spotify | 44ePwTuWK88vnalqutqJEG | 2003 | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Yeah-Yeah-Yeahs-Fever-To-Tell/release/407278 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIIxlgcuQRU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26wxdvLIiJ8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcjPFAV1foU | ||||
| 12141940 | Nas | Nasir | 2 | What’s it sound like? Nas rapping over beats kanye crafted just for him. Thoughts Nas just doesn't deliver here which is unfortunate as it feels like Kanye was stretching outside his usual to produce this just for Nas. A weak spot in the summer of Kanye. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Nas-Nasir/release/12141940 Listen! Spotify | 66EwBbt2kPgugo8Wz0SKAw | 2018 | Boom Bap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Nas-Nasir/release/12141940 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 12390752 | DJ Dodger Stadium | Big Wave More Fire | 3 | What’s it sound like? Energetic electro with vocals Moods 2017 with a kick Thoughts Fan of these dudes, underrated producers who produced great mixes as LOL boys as well as for Kanye. I thought their debut was great (note: I should revisit that one) but a bit on the experimental side at times. I like this release albeit a bit repetitive as an entire album. Production relies on vocoder and a break beat style that gives instant energy. The usage of vocoder reminds me of Justin Vernon at times and I can't picture this aging gracefully. Still, a lot to like on this highly accessible album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/DJDS-Big-Wave-More-Fire/release/12390752 Listen! Spotify | 2018 | House | Contemporary R&B | Electronic | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/DJDS-Big-Wave-More-Fire/release/12390752 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 12182883 | Galcher Lustwerk | 200% Galcher | 3 | Sounds like? Hip modern deep house with mumbling lyrics. Moods Nocturnal and hip Thoughts I'm a fan of this dude's production, it's like a tasteful young Americans take on Koze. The lyrics detract at times as they're most just general ruminating that don't say a whole lot. Like the aesthetic and sound overall. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Galcher-Lustwerk-200-Galcher/release/12182883 Listen! Spotify | 5tlLnGJdn7m5qucplsZqB1 | 2018 | Hip-House | Deep House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Galcher-Lustwerk-200-Galcher/release/12182883 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 10046749 | Kneebody | Anti-Hero | 4 | Sounds like? Rhythmic modern jazz with rock chops Thoughts This record is a very successful marriage of jazz and rock, listening notes: * Like the drum player a lot here, uses the full range of his kit. Keys too, layers well. * ‘Uprising’ is a good track, the 2nd half I could see extending into a tension building jam live. * ‘Drum battle’ takes that and builds it into something a bit heavier. * The sax player has great solos on drum battle and profar. Good use of distortion but otherwise the playing isn't quite soulful enough. * Album has a good flow. Almost has a classical like sway to it. Notes are long and melodic. I'd say this is where the 'cool' could be upped with this band.. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kneebody-Anti-Hero/release/10046749 Listen! Spotify | 3GrtramPrSi3f5dwxZOKc7 | 2017 | Contemporary Jazz | Fusion | Jazz-Rock | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Kneebody-Anti-Hero/release/10046749 | #VALUE! | |||
| 11507642 | Rich Brian | Amen | 1 | Thoughts Bad mumblecore More Info https://www.discogs.com/Rich-Brian-Amen-/release/11507642 Listen! Spotify | 4Y2V5TihhuWyKGnUzLQEpH | 2018 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Rich-Brian-Amen-/release/11507642 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 11277003 | Virtual Self | Virtual Self | 3 | Sounds like? Late 90s techno / hyper video game soundtrack Thoughts I like this, Wikipedia is spot on with its descriptions of techno from the 90s and ddr / final fantasy soundtracks. Tight EP. Ghost voices is a standout track, the rest are enjoyable even if this brand of techno isn't really my thing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Virtual-Self-Virtual-Self/release/11277003 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPc8QMycGno https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7QeR0VxnlA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b06pKMxF6h8 Spotify | 7I3PH61aLVNVj4EVvU16WG | 2017 | Trance | Progressive House | Downtempo | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Virtual-Self-Virtual-Self/release/11277003 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPc8QMycGno | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7QeR0VxnlA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b06pKMxF6h8 | ||
| 8899878 | Billy Childs | The Child Within | 3 | Sounds like? 80/90s post-bop. Thoughts Typically not as raw as I like my jazz, reminds me of WBGO (local NYC jazz), but the playing is tight and maintains a pleasant groove. Album highlights: * Aaron's song, an interesting piece of songwriting that repeats somber piano and sax melodies. * Dreams, a lazy swaying melody kicks things off into an intense set of solos. Solid record. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Billy-Childs-The-Child-Within/release/8899878 Listen! Spotify | 7hUndjZiZopeqShc8BusR6 | 1996 | Post Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Billy-Childs-The-Child-Within/release/8899878 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 1077374 | Chloé | The Waiting Room | 2 | Sounds like? Dark diy electro with rock instrumentation Moods Can't remember Thoughts A pretty OK uneven record. I like the longer rock numbers like it's Sunday and brashov. Other tracks felt drawn out and not very strong. I'll credit her with creating a distinct character here. Feels raw and soulful; elements often missing from electro. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Chlo%C3%A9-The-Waiting-Room/release/1077374 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clirpekTyKc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PbmM3PwfPg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9tWmIcIxRs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7_9L_wzkbs Spotify | 60nbbheOlubSx47kHOTCNv | 2007 | Leftfield | Minimal | Tech House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Chlo%C3%A9-The-Waiting-Room/release/1077374 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clirpekTyKc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PbmM3PwfPg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9tWmIcIxRs | ||
| 11053569 | CCFX | CCFX | 4 | Sounds like? Big sounding, chord-driven indie rock that borrows stylistic flourishes from shoegaze Moods CCFX Thoughts Tight gem of an EP. A well done update on 90s shoegaze styles. More Info https://www.discogs.com/CCFX-CCFX/release/11053569 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H13qmdEa2EI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFBQA-jU9Bg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SgzfhrX_kI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OVYQkz6W60 Spotify | 14h7FxQqVYilWuR8adP09G | 2017 | Leftfield | Bubblegum | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/CCFX-CCFX/release/11053569 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H13qmdEa2EI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFBQA-jU9Bg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SgzfhrX_kI | ||
| 12251209 | Justin Brown | Nyeusi | 3 | Sounds like? Modern spiritual jazz with a keen sense of rhythm and shimmering keys. Moods Stoner experimental Thoughts An enjoyable listen but requires a certain patience. The song structures typically follow a build from a quiet-calm and end in a fit of explosive energy. Justin Brown's distinct approach to the drum kit (off rhythm, complex, technical) can feel distracting at times as if he's just soloing letting everything else happen around him. It's hard to feel the band jiving at those times and more reminiscent of a free-jazz album. Considering this my favorite tracks are Replenish are and Fyfo, an accessible pair indebted to hip hop. It's an interesting listen and something that deserves decent headphones or speakers that can separate the mix as it can be a lot to pick out at times. He's pushing jazz forward in his own way and anyone curious about the contemporary scene should hear this. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Justin-Brown-Nyeusi/release/12251209 Listen! Spotify | 2018 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Justin-Brown-Nyeusi/release/12251209 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 11762725 | Smokepurpp | Deadstar | 2 | Sounds like? Trademark SoundCloud rap: distorted beats with repetitive mumble raps Moods Young and obnoxious Thoughts Smokepurpp isn't a very strong mc which is where the genre falls short as it lyrically lacks talent. However I think the production from SoundCloud rap is going to be big and a natural progression from Kanye's industrial use on yeezus. For that reason I think albums like this, while bloated and too long, are worth a listen for those curious about raps future direction.. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Smokepurpp-Deadstar/release/11762725 Listen! Spotify | 2TWKabrKN6YOZ1jgqo97uz | 2017 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Smokepurpp-Deadstar/release/11762725 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 12242081 | Tierra Whack | Whack World | 3 | Sounds like? Brief sketches of fun bedroom r&b Thoughts Can't quite call these 'songs' as tracks clock in at a minute each. But it succeeds as a whole with each track flowing into the next and creating a cohesive album. There’s a freewheeling approach that compliments the light synth production, reminds me of a less emo Frank ocean. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tierra-Whack-Whack-World/release/12242081 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOTebhPy04g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgOu-1YVWQk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuX8yOdrCVc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xnpy8HL-y8 Spotify | 3ogNAkUhvQy0cFOfLoR6Y8 | 2018 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Tierra-Whack-Whack-World/release/12242081 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOTebhPy04g | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgOu-1YVWQk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuX8yOdrCVc | ||||
| 10749297 | Ambrose Akinmusire | A Rift In Decorum (Live At The Village Vanguard) | 3 | Sounds like? Modern jazz that is rooted in tradition but veers into tasteful experimental deconstructions. Moods Downtown jazz Thoughts Impressive stuff, wholeheartedly suggest this to fans of modern jazz. I need to look up the style this is called but I feel this is part of a broader move forward for jazz. His compositions follow a general pattern with a somber melodic start to these songs that veers into intense free jazz like breakdowns. They illustrate a masterful knowledge of post-bop and mindful control on limits free jazz breakdowns. I think what sets this apart (ie from Justin Brown's latest) is the way the band keeps it together and doesn't totally abandon a collective playing. Jazz, as a genre, evolved into something where people seemed to go free, fusion or forced to play as a revivalist. This record combines something of the free and revitalist approach but does so in a modern way that feels fresh. Credit is due to the band and leadership of Ambrose. He's a trumpet player who's style I actually enjoy and is executing a vision perfectly. Justin Brown's drumming is always impressive and his influence can't be understated. I find he works very well as a member as a band rather than a leader; see my notes on nyeusi for more there. Conflicted on what to rate this so gave it a 3 for now. Believe I need a bit more time to really set in with listening sessions where I can enjoy this. Overall a great record with fresh ideas, recommended. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ambrose-Akinmusire-A-Rift-In-Decorum-Live-At-The-Village-Vanguard/release/10749297 Listen! Spotify | 7JSvfznch1vfoMOJxd7zPb | 2017 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Ambrose-Akinmusire-A-Rift-In-Decorum-Live-At-The-Village-Vanguard/release/10749297 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 9429305 | Avalon Emerson | Narcissus In Retrograde | 3 | Sounds like? Intense techno Moods Accessible Berghain Thoughts Biting and varied, hits with a booming intensity, reminds me of a more accessible version of Surgeon. ‘Why does it hurt’ is a bit boring, the rest is strong. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Avalon-Emerson-Narcissus-In-Retrograde/release/9429305 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXdQe_6Uxn4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2O3hrAyF90 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ft0wO67T_n4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2KrWuh9qc4 Spotify | 08jnJGhe1Tmq6NCwq3raa2 | 2016 | House | Tech House | Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Avalon-Emerson-Narcissus-In-Retrograde/release/9429305 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXdQe_6Uxn4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2O3hrAyF90 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ft0wO67T_n4 | ||
| 11765642 | Tay-K | #SantanaWorld | 1 | Sounds like? Aggressive young rap Thoughts ‘The Race’ shows high potential but I found the rest of the album lacking. Flows are never as memorable and I dislike the negative machismo. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tay-K-SantanaWorld/release/11765642 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYhXJaEbw7c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHOqdCA3ay4 Spotify | 1S7KWH0szrqutOvzsqxiBv | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Tay-K-SantanaWorld/release/11765642 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYhXJaEbw7c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHOqdCA3ay4 | |||||
| 1926235 | Anna Domino | East And West | 3 | Sounds like? Barebones 80s pop Moods Introspective stroll in Williamsburg. Black T-shirt on. Thoughts There's an enjoyable genuineness to this music which is strange as her singing is so nonchalant at times. Instrumentation features a band playing almost like they're trying to replicate a synth/drum machine setup. I like the worldly percussion and strings on tracks like ‘repeat’. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Anna-Domino-East-And-West/release/1926235 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=id2yCLniYQE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SouToUfk9YA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jn5ymN5uB4Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5FQsBD0zY0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fJ76bK_MLY Spotify | 78DxeidxyWA1ojkxaK1B6F | 2004 | Downtempo | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Anna-Domino-East-And-West/release/1926235 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=id2yCLniYQE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SouToUfk9YA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jn5ymN5uB4Q | |||
| 10987321 | Juju & Jordash | Sis-Boom-Bah! | 2 | Sounds like? Spacy techno Thoughts I appreciate the craft here as I understand it's created live. The final product seemed a bit out there, nothing really to hook into. I also wasn't into the berimbau like rhythm found on the first half. This seems like it might be enjoyable in an open environment and I'm super curious about one of their live shows. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Juju-Jordash-Sis-Boom-Bah/release/10987321 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NT6UYA83WJc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYiV8_ttbcg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qy2aKniSEpQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1IPf5jW54g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=da8i210MJcg Spotify | 5Lr9BjFAShRZmJvLSXzO8D | 2017 | House | Deep House | Downtempo | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Juju-Jordash-Sis-Boom-Bah/release/10987321 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NT6UYA83WJc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYiV8_ttbcg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qy2aKniSEpQ | ||
| 7165955 | Deadmau5 | Random Album Title | 2 | Sounds like? Trance/techno/edm Moods Big flashy Vegas club Thoughts There's something hypnotic about the trance thump backboning this whole thing. He's at his worst during the bloated techno but has some good moments when a bit more chilled out. Kind of tasteless and bland overall. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Deadmau5-Random-Album-Title/release/7165955 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOzwOeONBhQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOMtj7OXGn0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xn5MglF01iA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NL4KwX5ioXo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2PM5iTlmRE Spotify | 2F7QnnWJ1NAYRjx368xfJM | 2008 | House | Progressive House | Minimal | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Deadmau5-Random-Album-Title/release/7165955 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOzwOeONBhQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOMtj7OXGn0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xn5MglF01iA | ||
| 10212933 | Colin Stetson | All This I Do For Glory | 3 | Sounds like? Deep brooding sax laid on top of repetitive songs. Moods David Lynch Thoughts Colin Stetson is an impressive player. His distinct approach to the sax utilizing circular breathing and tiny microphones creates sounds and textures that go beyond a typical saxophone; like the opening and closing of flaps and squawking dissonance. These qualities don't always make-up for the loose songwriting and his albums kind of feel like he's just wanking off (felt this way when I saw him live too). Ultimately it's hard to deny the effectiveness of the textures he creates and those interested in experimental dark jazz should check him out. Stetson has a vision he's able to perfectly articulate and in that way he's a master at his craft. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Colin-Stetson-All-This-I-Do-For-Glory/release/10212933 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSaVYSpqRNg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srBkjdjvoJg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tc-28nIE-tQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJHr2DlRog8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T690rDJ7c80 Spotify | 5IQhNr6Vn3cq03bPty6Cpe | 2017 | Modern | Avantgarde | Experimental | Jazz | Rock | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/Colin-Stetson-All-This-I-Do-For-Glory/release/10212933 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSaVYSpqRNg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srBkjdjvoJg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tc-28nIE-tQ |
| 1951138 | Juju & Jordash | Juju & Jordash | 3 | Sounds like? Loose spacey electro Thoughts My favorite album of theirs, the analog approach works well here. Tracks cover a range of techno but all are done well. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Juju-Jordash-Juju-Jordash/release/1951138 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA-3JK60kbE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LfxVU1kCyE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qi2Gvi6W210 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3t8-d1PYPo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC3q-AQqOhY Spotify | 723q04Vhxr4Hmr6dstbUFR | 2009 | Leftfield | Techno | Deep House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Juju-Jordash-Juju-Jordash/release/1951138 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA-3JK60kbE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LfxVU1kCyE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qi2Gvi6W210 | ||
| 6402704 | Juju & Jordash | Clean-Cut | 2 | Sounds like? Experimental club techno Moods Dark dank club Thoughts Would love to see them live. Definitely some good moments on the album but overall too much. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Juju-Jordash-Clean-Cut/release/6402704 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNjM1RaBK0o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WH7c0dFeAY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlSk6LQqfdY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BklWyq1rK70 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp3AhR_wrng Spotify | 4vlyi7rQZH1Ato8CFbZy42 | 2014 | Techno | Deep House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Juju-Jordash-Clean-Cut/release/6402704 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNjM1RaBK0o | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WH7c0dFeAY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlSk6LQqfdY | |||
| 11315367 | Huncho Jack | Huncho Jack, Jack Huncho | 2 | Sounds like? A super group of ATL stutter trap style. Moods Braggadocio Thoughts I say super group but that doesn't mean you're necessarily getting the best work from these guys. Kind of like when the all-star teams play each other in sports: sick lineup but mediocre outing. Some great singles here (production on ‘Dubai shit’ is a+) but lots of fat, can only take so much of the style. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Huncho-Jack-Huncho-Jack-Jack-Huncho/release/11315367 Listen! Spotify | 6FED8aeieEnUWwQqAO9zT1 | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Huncho-Jack-Huncho-Jack-Jack-Huncho/release/11315367 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 8694249 | Palmistry | PAGAN | 2 | Sounds like? Basic diy dancehall production with cutesy shy singing Moods Headphone introvert Thoughts I like the idea here but it's repetitive as an entire album. He's not engaging as a singer and the production is kind of flat. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Palmistry-PAGAN/release/8694249 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZLJnd1D1A4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfiIZeD6Xog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZdcxgS5rh8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NAHxMylJ98 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2KwEIUsLaE Spotify | 1QPUDmwjw99DcEfeTjQe2q | 2016 | New Wave | Experimental | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Palmistry-PAGAN/release/8694249 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZLJnd1D1A4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfiIZeD6Xog | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZdcxgS5rh8 | ||
| 10929805 | Injury Reserve | Drive It Like It's Stolen | 2 | Sounds like? Aggressive bo1da beats with j 5 raps Thoughts While I like the production the emcees just weren't up to par in my book. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Injury-Reserve-Drive-It-Like-Its-Stolen/release/10929805 Listen! Spotify | 7ipmdpMltN2eD0TAzVb5bb | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Injury-Reserve-Drive-It-Like-Its-Stolen/release/10929805 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 11313213 | Heathered Pearls | Detroit, MI 1997-2001 | 2 | Sounds like? Minimal Detroit techno Moods Night driving Thoughts Pretty OK for Detroit techno. The album closer, The Packard Plant, is the standout track. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Heathered-Pearls-Detroit-MI-1997-2001/release/11313213 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3skPXUo8eW8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU0RgNSJBaU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5-W6QIa9lM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKu2ye5AJ98 Spotify | 1DCsbC70LIofzuOfjf8mWi | 2017 | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Heathered-Pearls-Detroit-MI-1997-2001/release/11313213 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3skPXUo8eW8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU0RgNSJBaU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5-W6QIa9lM | ||||
| 12416120 | Folamour | Umami | 3 | Sounds like? Fun house with a positive vibe and featuring classic r&b samples Moods Hip DJ at a trendy lounge Thoughts I like this. Obvious samples like ‘get into the party’ integrate well with his brand of house. I could picture this as background music at a hip party. I prefer the instrumental and more rhythmic 'look at me or I'll steal your eyes' utilizing a rich drumline that reminds me of an accessible moodymann. Planning to check out more by this dude. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Folamour-Umami/release/12416120 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgPAtfsYx68 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5ART96udgk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYaTMx4YgP0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMIW8MrYFN8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyxApRibsk4 Spotify | 6om5wLwMEeQcY1Uwlh7Oel | 2017 | House | Deep House | Hip Hop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Folamour-Umami/release/12416120 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgPAtfsYx68 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5ART96udgk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYaTMx4YgP0 | ||
| 6533917 | Future | Beast Mode | 2 | Sounds like? Future's trademark flow over Zaytovens piano focused production Moods ATL nodding Thoughts Some standout tracks from Future's prolific years. Zaytovens production works though is a little too happy for Future's sadness. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Future-4-Zaytoven-Beast-Mode/release/6533917 Listen! Spotify | 1GvR0Bjqbq1ejwjzLjrOcG | 2015 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Future-4-Zaytoven-Beast-Mode/release/6533917 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 4490046 | Antonio Sanchez | New Life | 4 | Sounds like? I'll call this adult contemporary jazz. Modern melodic playing, at times building with rock-like structures Moods Pensive autumn walk Thoughts A lot to like here: top notch songwriting that builds effectively, each piece works as a standalone single. Playing is great. Not usually a fan of Alto-sax players but I like him here. Aspects of this border on corny. “New life”, for instance, has this new age scatting that I found distracting. Overall great playing and writing makes this an album I've enjoyed coming back to over the past few years. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Antonio-Sanchez-New-Life/release/4490046 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKuSBPjMB6Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxQyUU4B_IE Spotify | 7lf8uHwghHcyjA5euPl2kX | 2013 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Antonio-Sanchez-New-Life/release/4490046 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKuSBPjMB6Y | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxQyUU4B_IE | |||||
| 11981490 | Joy Orbison,Ben Vince | Transition 2 | 4 | Sounds like? Energetic electro with effect laden sax Moods Club but still want to jam Thoughts Electronic music can sometimes feel too mechanical. Incorporating instrumentation into electronic productions is, generally speaking, a positive way to humanize the music while still leveraging the infinite possibilities electronic production can offer. Enter here: a fusion record of top-notch Joy Orbison productions (hip IDM) and sax-playing by Ben Vince. While I think there's room to grow in the electro/jam fusion space, I support explorations like this as it points to a direction I'd like to see music going. Sounds pretty good too. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Joy-O-Ben-Vince-Transition-2/release/11981490 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaadiuAbXC0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XCiy5FH5Qc Spotify | 2018 | House | Experimental | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Joy-O-Ben-Vince-Transition-2/release/11981490 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaadiuAbXC0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XCiy5FH5Qc | ||||
| 9707999 | System Olympia | Dusk & Dreamland EP | 2 | Sounds like? Modern electro synth stuff Moods Wanna be hip and obscure Thoughts A number of different ideas that didn't click with me More Info https://www.discogs.com/System-Olympia-Dusk-Dreamland-EP/release/9707999 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOuKZIIQRGg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQCaIIVgeWA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-GJLjQXuIA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkhl12NA3Eo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibE3SIL4Pt0 Spotify | 2017 | Disco | Nu-Disco | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/System-Olympia-Dusk-Dreamland-EP/release/9707999 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOuKZIIQRGg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQCaIIVgeWA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-GJLjQXuIA | ||||
| 11221994 | Dawn People | The Star Is Your Future | 2 | Sounds like? Instrumental sample / synth based electro with influence from early Beck or The Avalanches. Moods Energetic studio adventures Thoughts An album of ideas rather than songs exploring rich instrumental productions. I liked the general approach just felt it would have benefited from polishing and structure. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dawn-People-The-Star-Is-Your-Future/release/11221994 Listen! Spotify | 1zdmOkghxhwAv6al24zlSR | 2017 | #VALUE! | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Dawn-People-The-Star-Is-Your-Future/release/11221994 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 12237837 | Future | Beast Mode 2 | 0 | Sounds like? Future rapping over zaytoven beats Moods ATL bravado Thoughts It can be difficult to sit through a whole Future release as his flow gets repetitive but the reasons I like him (catchy hooks galore, darkness lyrical themes) is in prime form here. Compared with the first beast mode, again a Future/Zaytoven collaboration, Zaytoven’s production has matured to incorporate more textures and broader style range while still weaving those pleasant keys in. If you like Future this is one of his better records. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Future-Beast-Mode-2/release/12237837 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uy7HEC1osw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCavFibSQLQ Spotify | 2018 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Future-Beast-Mode-2/release/12237837 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uy7HEC1osw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCavFibSQLQ | ||||||
| 9466928 | A-Trak | In The Loop: A Decade Of Remixes | 3 | Sounds like? Choice indie favorites reimagined through Atraks tight, energetic turntablist approach Moods Active urban pulse, perfect for sound tracking busy moments in the city. Thoughts I think A-trak is one the best electro dudes out there, mostly for his remix work on things like dirty south dance 1 and 2 (note to self: revisit these). Always fresh, he's got a great ear for modern electro and incorporating a variety of tastes into his turntablism approach. Solid collection here. More Info https://www.discogs.com/A-Trak-In-The-Loop-A-Decade-Of-Remixes/release/9466928 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NONvXKByDgE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-o9a8zysQno https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK3jGjiaLho https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngdlHh48s1Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3c4dPxN1qM Spotify | 3Dp3a564KWDySisd2yoPYm | 2016 | Electro House | House | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/A-Trak-In-The-Loop-A-Decade-Of-Remixes/release/9466928 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NONvXKByDgE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-o9a8zysQno | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK3jGjiaLho | ||
| 73749 | Keith Fullerton Whitman | Playthroughs | 4 | Sounds like? Ambient noise Moods Working Thoughts Excellent ambient, captures a mood and doesn't let go. This is all done with guitar, think long 'held' notes. 'Modena’ is an album standout and benefits from a traditional song structure. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Keith-Fullerton-Whitman-Playthroughs/release/73749 Listen! Spotify | 6ougW9XMhBN61PLZBrwZVW | 2002 | Drone | Minimal | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Keith-Fullerton-Whitman-Playthroughs/release/73749 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 6808379 | DJ Esco, Future | 56 Nights | 3 | Sounds like? Future's ATL trap style at his darkest and highest Moods Nocturnal, top of the world and nothing to lose Thoughts Future at his best: exploring dark escapist thoughts over gritty heavy booming Southside productions. One of his better mixtapes. More Info https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Esco-Hosted-By-Future-56-Nights/release/6808379 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FH7IC-AK-s Spotify | 2015 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Esco-Hosted-By-Future-56-Nights/release/6808379 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FH7IC-AK-s | |||||||
| 92866 | Tricky | Pre-Millennium Tension | 3 | Sounds like? Dense rap and spoken word over dark trip hop rock Moods True to the name, this is art that captures a disillusionment and fear Thoughts A fantastic record that succeeds in creating the atmosphere it sets out to create. The sampling is top notch and on par with the greats of the era. The lyrical delivery can feel dated but i need to spend more time with the album to see if it resonates. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tricky-Pre-Millennium-Tension/release/92866 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Te3-KmKhjpc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rwpllGfj9w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjwL9eJKhRU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87029rOg5ic https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5aU6kH7pdM Spotify | 540zw9ShTu9bsY984xS3Hu | 1996 | Trip Hop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Tricky-Pre-Millennium-Tension/release/92866 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Te3-KmKhjpc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rwpllGfj9w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjwL9eJKhRU | ||||
| 711475 | Vashti Bunyan | Just Another Diamond Day | 2 | Sounds like? Acoustic folk Moods Shepherd's pie Thoughts Some nice instrumentation with a good use of strings but this is just far too pleasant for me More Info https://www.discogs.com/Vashti-Bunyan-Just-Another-Diamond-Day/release/711475 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqWo3wtNvE0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-erNldHdV8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fpw7Z0Ncgg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-KISPvIM7Y Spotify | 6BjFznpsyrxCFMpp3hzlD2 | 2004 | Folk Rock | Acoustic | Ballad | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Vashti-Bunyan-Just-Another-Diamond-Day/release/711475 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqWo3wtNvE0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-erNldHdV8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fpw7Z0Ncgg | |
| 10756796 | Kamasi Washington | Harmony Of Difference | 3 | Sounds like? A contemporary and melodic take on a big jazz band Moods Classy evening at Zinc bar Thoughts A lovely ep with great playing by Kamasi and his band. Compared to other Kamasi releases songs are more chilled out and run shorter. I appreciate the flow with songs merging into each other. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kamasi-Washington-Harmony-Of-Difference/release/10756796 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtW1S5EbHgU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58tTYAT2YpE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM7SM_OnPbc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxSgNFvb2_8 Spotify | 1mFuFPBz9kBDdXylMNolu7 | 2017 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Kamasi-Washington-Harmony-Of-Difference/release/10756796 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtW1S5EbHgU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58tTYAT2YpE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM7SM_OnPbc | ||||
| 576416 | James Brown | In The Jungle Groove (Expanded Edition) | 5 | Sounds like? James Brown's soulful funk Moods Having a good time with people that love good music Thoughts This is the good stuff: tight extended funk jams, some of my favorite James Brown songs are here. A fantastic record and must hear for any funk fan. Fun fact: Bootsy is playing bass on a few of the tracks. More Info https://www.discogs.com/James-Brown-In-The-Jungle-Groove-Expanded-Edition/release/576416 Listen! Spotify | 2003 | Soul | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/James-Brown-In-The-Jungle-Groove-Expanded-Edition/release/576416 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 2807191 | Pole | Steingarten | 3 | Sounds like? Dub influenced German minimal with angular noise Moods Womping to the beat Thoughts First few tracks have this cartoonish womp to them that took away from the sleekness I typically want out of minimal house. On a closer listen it's really an incorporation of dub, almost like dub meets German minimal. Tracks are layered with lots of subtleties although on the surface things may seem straightforward. Something about this album stuck with me before I revisited it a second time. Later tracks improve, Dusseldorf is a keeper and I like the distortion and noise that's present on most of the record but really utilized effectively on the final tracks. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Pole-Steingarten/release/2807191 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKtHnMK1ywM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2ghsOZ-F3I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIZGWksMaQo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBCom8o1Tvg Spotify | 7AWFujkOmvsMxJNow56ooN | 2007 | Minimal | Abstract | Dub | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Pole-Steingarten/release/2807191 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKtHnMK1ywM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2ghsOZ-F3I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIZGWksMaQo | ||
| 7093907 | Purl | Stillpoint | 3 | Sounds like? Ambient. Sometimes with a bit of a pulse. Moods Nocturnal, focused, want music but not distracting. Thoughts In certain settings this is an enjoyable record. Worked well as something to have on while working. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Purl-Stillpoint/release/7093907 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIz6jNGrNow https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7amUtm-xV4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9MIarQDXRY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZI6vZ5nKgY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UEVClBPD8E Spotify | 5Ft3tpI7fbDOHxaBVSfi2h | 2015 | Ambient | Dub Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Purl-Stillpoint/release/7093907 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIz6jNGrNow | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7amUtm-xV4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9MIarQDXRY | |||
| 6942436 | Curtis Knight & The Squires | You Can't Use My Name - The RSVP / PPX Sessions | 2 | Sounds like? R&B / electric blues Moods Rainy day woman take me away Thoughts There's effectively two parts to this: R&B tracks written by Curtis Knight and a handful of instrumentals written by Hendrix. I like the instrumentals but wasn't into the vocal tracks written by Curtis. Stick with Hendrix's main catalog. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Curtis-Knight-The-Squires-You-Cant-Use-My-Name-The-RSVP-PPX-Sessions/release/6942436 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDcu15Wb3u0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPrB5tHJ0Ec https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QO_66F1TTQk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_i8l4JCjGE Spotify | 2015 | Rhythm & Blues | Rock | Funk / Soul | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Curtis-Knight-The-Squires-You-Cant-Use-My-Name-The-RSVP-PPX-Sessions/release/6942436 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDcu15Wb3u0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPrB5tHJ0Ec | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QO_66F1TTQk | |||
| 11839108 | Hunee | Hunchin' All Night | 2 | Sounds like? New age / world into clubier house tracks Moods Obscure for the sake of being obscure Thoughts The 80s world pop on the first few songs is OK but things take a decidedly more interesting turn with ‘ritual of love’ where the house vibe is gradually turned up behind a vocal rambling. This transitions into Larry Heard's burning 4 love, a fantastic house track. Things finish off OK, better than side 1 at least, but overall not anything I feel the need to revisit. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Hunee-Hunchin-All-Night/release/11839108 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UlYSBDBKPI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMdL_MBpyAs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOsEzyM3rLM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qo0qGO8OIL8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYUZzg3ud8k Spotify | 2018 | House | African | Disco | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Folk | https://www.discogs.com/Hunee-Hunchin-All-Night/release/11839108 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UlYSBDBKPI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMdL_MBpyAs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOsEzyM3rLM | |
| 12167505 | Kids See Ghosts | Kids See Ghosts | 3 | Sounds like? Cudi and Kanye rapping over Kanye productions that fit like a glove Moods Feeling a little older but still feel young Thoughts Really like this, a collaboration that works; feels like a relevant addition to Cudi's catalog and not just a detour featuring Kanye. The productions in particular seem really well suited to Cudi. Stylistically similar to Cudi's previous catalogs but with a fresh update courteous of Kanye. Tight, memorable, overall great release for any Kid Cudi fan. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kids-See-Ghosts-Kids-See-Ghosts/release/12167505 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtkW3cuMNfM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFLra8GgzY0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mfNVlbHQrc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Nc9n77W42g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8ibdsPYOgw Spotify | 6pwuKxMUkNg673KETsXPUV | 2018 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Kids-See-Ghosts-Kids-See-Ghosts/release/12167505 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtkW3cuMNfM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFLra8GgzY0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mfNVlbHQrc | ||||
| 11887899 | Rival Consoles | Persona | 2 | Sounds like? Energetic electro Moods Rather be listening to another rival consoles album Thoughts Not crazy about this release. The first two Rival Console albums had a distinct intensity to them that is missing here. Instead this album favors more melodic moments that doesn't land as well. I do like the brief pair of calm instrumental tracks, in kind and the album closer. Introspective in tone they featured a meandering keyboard solo over some hissy electro beat. Hope there's more of this somewhere. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Rival-Consoles-Persona/release/11887899 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFRM3ju95Rc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYsp6_Pd-dI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fm0aB4Ufy0g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lF9hc9f4KXs Spotify | 6xXUBuk9DL3sLEiDyyYLme | 2018 | IDM | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Rival-Consoles-Persona/release/11887899 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFRM3ju95Rc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYsp6_Pd-dI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fm0aB4Ufy0g | |||
| 671150 | Galaxie 500 | Today | 2 | Sounds like? Guitar driven pop rock Moods Overly sophisticated college kid Thoughts Textbook college rock, not my thing. Dragged and lacked energy. The one exception is ‘Don't let our youth go to waste’, classic track. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Galaxie-500-Today/release/671150 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ph3Raj7Jyk0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYHR3hAZOUM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNN1BziFzTI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCPM7ZN6p_4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFBX9W0EvqE Spotify | 5vNKHuz5SeL0bOLtha1xQJ | 1991 | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Galaxie-500-Today/release/671150 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ph3Raj7Jyk0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYHR3hAZOUM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNN1BziFzTI | ||||
| 12117719 | Clairo | diary 001 | 3 | Sounds like? Bedroom pop Moods Highschool Thoughts Something charming here. It's a bedroom pop record with basic 'happy' synth productions. While it feels personal it's done in a way that's not overly sappy. Her vocal abilities could be developed further, it's a stretch to call this singing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Clairo-diary-001/release/12117719 Listen! Spotify | 3NEDQmYF1roygFssVEwkwv | 2018 | Indie Pop | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Clairo-diary-001/release/12117719 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 12173407 | Teyana Taylor | K.T.S.E. | 3 | Sounds like? Low-key R&B Moods Babe we got this Thoughts This EP is not without flaws, and takes a few tracks to get into swing, but I find it to be a charming set of songs. The easy going and intimate productions anchored by simple guitar and percussion fits her limited range perfectly, putting some memorable lyrical adages front and center. ‘Issues’ and 'Hurry’ are modern r&b gems. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Teyana-Taylor-KTSE/release/12173407 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwSCplLupTA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJzeoMUXSMI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDJQwpO2oyQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkDoGJxAWuc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKQ3r5tc_oo Spotify | 0mwf6u9KVhZDCNVyIi6JuU | 2018 | House | Contemporary R&B | Electronic | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Teyana-Taylor-KTSE/release/12173407 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwSCplLupTA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJzeoMUXSMI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDJQwpO2oyQ | |
| 12304688 | Popcaan | Forever | 2 | Sounds like? Chilled out dancehall Moods Nighttime in the Caribbean Thoughts I like Popcaan's overall style as well the productions here, I just wish this was hookier. His calm and slow approach takes some of the fun, carefreeness out of dancehall. Definitely some good tracks to be found but they are too far between a bunch of filler on this overly long album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Popcaan-Forever/release/12304688 Listen! Spotify | 26z5UAfInaNNgFmYD2dkge | 2018 | Dancehall | Reggae | https://www.discogs.com/Popcaan-Forever/release/12304688 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 12364402 | Makaya McCraven | Where We Come From (CHICAGOxLONDON Mixtape) | 4 | Sounds like? Modern jazz with a strong hip hop bend Moods Evening warehouse jam Thoughts A fine example of jazz that successfully incorporates hip hop elements, typically these hybrids are reversed (eg Kendricks backing band). This has a dynamic energy to it, making good use of effects and electronics to keep things fresh. While it plays like a live album this was stitched together in post production which benefits the experience as something that's just one big highlight. Exploratory playful, energetic, progressive: what jazz is all about. Recommended tracks: ox tales, repetitive drumline pushes things forward with a soulful keys solo on top, King drive utilizes a James Blake pitched down vocal to extreme effectiveness on a track already utilizing off-time signatures. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Makaya-McCraven-Where-We-Come-From-CHICAGOxLONDON-Mixtape/release/12364402 Listen! Spotify | 2018 | Broken Beat | Electronic | Hip Hop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Makaya-McCraven-Where-We-Come-From-CHICAGOxLONDON-Mixtape/release/12364402 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 3429650 | Idris Muhammad | House Of The Rising Sun | 4 | Sounds like? Upbeat kinda groovy quick jazz funk Moods Having a good time with some smart ass music Thoughts I love Muhammad's drumming which gives this an incredibly quick backbeat that only a true master can provide. Add in some punchy bass and solos that carry with energy and character, has a 70s grit to it. The writing is great too, taking pop and turning them into jazz songs (really well done, not just half-baked covers) Sudan is a great piece where I feel the band gels more and feels slightly less arranged. (Admittedly the track I said to myself ok this is a really good album). I don't want you know more is a greater closer. Bit new Orleans brass with a floating keys line and funky get up and dance drum beat, ends with the right energy. Allmusic got it right: But the complete disregard for the political correctness of "Jazz" itself, in order to get the deeply funky and soulful grooves across, is what makes this set so damn special and even spiritual in its inspiration. Jazz purists lost all credibility when they slagged this one off, caught as they were in tainted, even racist views of the past that made no allowances for jazz musicians to actually follow their time-honored tradition of mining the pop music of the day to extend the breadth and reach of jazz itself. Anybody who wants to believe that George Gershwin is somehow more important than George Porter Jr. is already lost in his own cultural fascism. Muhammad, who understands this better than anyone, pulled out all the stops here and blasted out one amazingly tough, funky slab. Brilliant. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Idris-Muhammad-House-Of-The-Rising-Sun/release/3429650 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H65eHEzP8tw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aagky9IPqFU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQYjowa4780 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggFdAs9dk38 Spotify | 6pC0QxD8NR7f1R5HzJ4q5U | 1976 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Idris-Muhammad-House-Of-The-Rising-Sun/release/3429650 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H65eHEzP8tw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aagky9IPqFU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQYjowa4780 | ||
| 11204819 | Charlotte Gainsbourg | Rest | 2 | Sounds like? Pop balanced with dramatic string arrangements. Production is very French and feels like a mature Justice meets Sebastian night driving. Moods Feeling like a French movie star in a cemetery on an overcast day. Thoughts There's something distinctly French about this album. I really want to like this, and do enjoy the texture and overall vision she's crafting. I think a lot of that is due to Sebastian's production which has matured quite a bit since the days of Ed Banger. It's as if someone watered down Air’s ‘cherry blossom girl’ and added pop focused songwriting. There's a few great tracks. ‘Sylvia says’ features big production and personal memorable lyrics. Love the instrumentation that closes the album on 'les oxalis’, wish that could've been expanded upon. Overall felt it a little dense and serious, stylistically great but the songwriting was lacking in memorableness. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Charlotte-Gainsbourg-Rest/release/11204819 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRwgL_PrQYQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkyIVKbCfG8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3EEZssD2Us https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtB5jC9_kc4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmW-gkTrj4A Spotify | 5nalJu58LJj7AMMyHwtbLX | 2017 | Indie Pop | Pop Rock | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Charlotte-Gainsbourg-Rest/release/11204819 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRwgL_PrQYQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkyIVKbCfG8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3EEZssD2Us | ||
| 1690867 | Jon Hassell | Last Night The Moon Came Dropping Its Clothes In The Street | 4 | Sounds like? Atmospheric ambient jazz Moods Nocturnal Thoughts Alright I need more of this. A spiritual successor to miles' electric period but with a new world / ambient lean. Uneven on the first listen but liked the title track and courtrais (almost feel this borrowed a bass line from miles). More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jon-Hassell-Last-Night-The-Moon-Came-Dropping-Its-Clothes-In-The-Street/release/1690867 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7IRnin9gF0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWD06Fi6hdk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UwyyZ3dkKE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLmDY7vLmFU Spotify | 6p97ys8xZeV60gh427TwMz | 2009 | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Jon-Hassell-Last-Night-The-Moon-Came-Dropping-Its-Clothes-In-The-Street/release/1690867 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7IRnin9gF0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWD06Fi6hdk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UwyyZ3dkKE | ||||
| 3416582 | Boards Of Canada | Hi Scores | 3 | Sounds like? A variety of 90s electro including synth ambient and breakbeat Moods An intelligent dance party Thoughts Enjoyed the breakbeat tracks (not sure if it's true breakbeat but reminds me) ‘Nlogax’ and ‘Seeya later’ but the others are very good as well. ‘Hi Scores’ and ‘Turquoise Hexagon Sun’ are almost like ambient trip hop. One of my favorite boards of canada releases that I've heard so far. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Boards-Of-Canada-Hi-Scores/release/3416582 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4NyNJQesL4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLReNnxIkHQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuvMNQ7IjNY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTVuradFBY0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3CnnprSblw Spotify | 3FabCzGQgFLqkCqzceB5ii | 1999 | Downtempo | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Boards-Of-Canada-Hi-Scores/release/3416582 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4NyNJQesL4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLReNnxIkHQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuvMNQ7IjNY | |||
| 7568602 | Elza Soares | A Mulher Do Fim Do Mundo | 3 | Sounds like? Samba Punk Moods Scorching evening on the esplanade Thoughts A curious record, original to my ears. I've always enjoyed elements of samba but its a genre that seems to appeal to purists and is stuck in the past, all roads leading to Jobim. Here the band and writing has a punk direction (of the south american variety) but with a samba flavor. She was 80 when she record this so there is an element of maturity. It's this juxtaposition of such a mature voice being coupled with an edgy sound that gives it the appeal. I've often felt frustrated by the mellowing of artists catalogs as they get older so it's nice to hear something where someone is pushing themselves in a younger direction. I'll be honest this isn't the type of thing I plan on revisiting much but there's something about the sound that I find interesting. Worth a listen. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Elza-Soares-A-Mulher-Do-Fim-Do-Mundo/release/7568602 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I38EcMJX8A8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63E6SVvaSvA Spotify | 2015 | Samba | MPB | Latin | https://www.discogs.com/Elza-Soares-A-Mulher-Do-Fim-Do-Mundo/release/7568602 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I38EcMJX8A8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63E6SVvaSvA | |||||
| 10003075 | Emeralds (2) | Does It Look Like I'm Here? | 3 | Sounds like? Dense intense synths Moods Yesterday's vision of the future Thoughts I enjoyed this but it's a very specific record. Synths with an intense, brooding repetition that's intense; tracks have a Bach like heaviness to them. The particularly dense tracks like genetic and double helix could soundtrack any megatropolis movie of the future. There's something striking here if you've got the patience or interest. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Emeralds-Does-It-Look-Like-Im-Here/release/10003075 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUPJofuMNtE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpaLm88PHz0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXxOK5hx1W0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDw6tUiTfkE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHfFZYK81lA Spotify | 2011 | Synth-pop | Berlin-School | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Emeralds-Does-It-Look-Like-Im-Here/release/10003075 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUPJofuMNtE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpaLm88PHz0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXxOK5hx1W0 | ||||
| 3643207 | Idris Muhammad | Power Of Soul | 4 | Sounds like? Funky soulful jazz Moods Feeling Fine Thoughts Not crazy about the title track (though the guitar work is good) but the rest of the album is really good: * ‘Piece of mind’ is hip and soulful with an easy free-floating vibe. * ‘Lorans dance’ is a masterpiece and one of my favorite tracks in recent years: cool, nocturnal, soulful. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Idris-Muhammad-Power-Of-Soul/release/3643207 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mEGcz_n5OU Spotify | 4blKLLF57DrHhUyxtaziZX | 0 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Idris-Muhammad-Power-Of-Soul/release/3643207 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mEGcz_n5OU | |||||
| 10484847 | Vels Trio | Yellow Ochre | 3 | Sounds like? Funky modern jazz trio with rock chops Moods Couldn't get into Snarkypuppy so I saw the vels trio instead Thoughts Damn this is a tight group. Add vels trio onto the list of recent good modern jazz releases. Has just the right amount of funky keys and rock chops to keep the songwriting engaging. This feels like a great release to get a friend into jazz as it's got enough groove for anyone to hook into. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Vels-Trio-Yellow-Ochre-/release/10484847 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqmHW7CqHBg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tYN_b5mWbI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhTIa7TLGzc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHoVmkWctKM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbbtkvVIu1g Spotify | 5OX7KlHPeP5gdD6jvL8MjZ | 2017 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Vels-Trio-Yellow-Ochre-/release/10484847 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqmHW7CqHBg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tYN_b5mWbI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhTIa7TLGzc | |||
| 12224797 | Nelson Of The East | Night Frames | 3 | Sounds like? Slick instrumental house disco afro funk Moods Dancing at a show Thoughts This hovers somewhere in the middle of afro-funk, disco and house. Has a nice feel sexy worldly feel. First couple of tracks are ok: thumping bassline, tasteful keys flirt with soulfulness ( especially the last bit on ‘night frames’). ‘Obalyeko’ gets more interesting: introducing a vocal sample, marimba-like part and a complex but crisp bass line. ‘En route’ chills things out with a techno like throb. The Glenn Astro remix of the title track adds a wobbling dub baseline, probably the freshest thing on here with it's direct electro influence. More Info https://www.discogs.com/NOTE-Night-Frames/release/12224797 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ve85CRU8AM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp3Oql2qUK0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTwu6Ir5rGs Spotify | 2018 | House | Experimental | Acid Jazz | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/NOTE-Night-Frames/release/12224797 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ve85CRU8AM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp3Oql2qUK0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTwu6Ir5rGs | |||
| 6907279 | Jim-E Stack | Tell Me I Belong | 3 | Sounds like? Hip energetic electro Moods Friday Thoughts Variety is this albums appeal. Tracks rely on heavily repeated vocals and rhythmic bits to great effect, felt very inspired by the classic breakbeat aesthetic of the second track. ‘Reassuring’ utilizes a downpitched vocal sample, creating a bumping homage to early James Blake. His percussive sense comes out on the 2nd half in the form of an appealing rhythmic bounce. This is good to great, accessible and catchy. I enjoy it just as much on repeat listens but wonder if the straightforward songwriting will holdup as an album or make these tracks more fit as singles for mixes. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jim-E-Stack-Tell-Me-I-Belong/release/6907279 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9nrWtu6aiI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILrbIi1XPbw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mWvNWtZbVI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npaLZ3dyPRA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fzh6HwhORWY Spotify | 3TxJnbP4jLuhCirO1CsWqw | 2014 | House | Deep House | Garage House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Jim-E-Stack-Tell-Me-I-Belong/release/6907279 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9nrWtu6aiI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILrbIi1XPbw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mWvNWtZbVI | ||
| 1929704 | Jeff Beck | Blow By Blow | 4 | Sounds like? Guitar driven classic rock Moods Collins Basement Thoughts The songwriting reminds me of prog rock due to a series of time changes and chops but at its core this is 'classic rock' through and through. Songs are structured around Beck's guitar playing and feature some great keys solos and impeccable drumming and bass. Beck's style is fantastic: technical and precise while still maintaining a groove. While later tracks like 'scatterbrain’ kick things into full-on rock, I really like the easy-going, latin-tinged ‘she's a women’. Solid record. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jeff-Beck-Blow-By-Blow/release/1929704 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwUq8ZE3d7c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcGlc45uHOo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_9C5MUJVHQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Khmsksk5w_o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ia_ZCGFA9nk Spotify | 6fhTDVBs7qeoP3254hMu6u | 1975 | Fusion | Jazz-Funk | Jazz-Rock | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Jeff-Beck-Blow-By-Blow/release/1929704 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwUq8ZE3d7c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcGlc45uHOo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_9C5MUJVHQ | |
| 11953128 | High-Klassified | Kanvaz | 2 | Sounds like? Electro hip hop Moods Big Boomy Thoughts Meh, nothing very interesting here. More Info https://www.discogs.com/High-Klassified-Kanvaz/release/11953128 Listen! Spotify | 2XUtkeetFQ4EdsUZNrcMkR | 2018 | House | Hip Hop | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/High-Klassified-Kanvaz/release/11953128 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 9341908 | Mary Halvorson Octet | Away With You | 4 | Sounds like? Big, modern, swinging avant-garde jazz Moods Feeling.. technical Thoughts She's been hyped a lot for her live shows here in New York and as my first introduction to her I can see why as this is a must hear for anyone interested in modern compositions. Meticulously arranged, this offers layers of strings, brass and rhythm executed flawlessly. Hats off to the vision and level of playing. Nothing sexy here, its ‘dooty’ plain vanilla jazz but damn those are incredibly interesting compositions. Side one is where it's at. Rewards repeat listens. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mary-Halvorson-Octet-Away-With-You/release/9341908 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMm1J_sHSx8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6e84_L7zsak Spotify | 4SCPBi8ZzWzS8BlBIVoHCK | 2016 | Avant-garde Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Mary-Halvorson-Octet-Away-With-You/release/9341908 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMm1J_sHSx8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6e84_L7zsak | |||||
| 8887261 | AZ | Doe Or Die | 2 | Sounds like? Golden age queensbridge Moods NY State of mind Thoughts I consider this a companion piece to early Nas, stylistically it's cut from the same cloth; when Nas guests on ‘gimme yours’ and ‘homicide’ it's clear they've got history. Ultimately I find this to be an uneven listen, AZ feels like a bootleg Nas and the creative vision isn't as clear as Nas’ early classics. Does have it's quality moments with ‘Sugar Hill’ and the title track featuring a hot and hazy funk. More Info https://www.discogs.com/AZ-Doe-Or-Die/release/8887261 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2L47XLmdAk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrPDp_7imMM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fre4gW6xIWk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l81L6rV6X8k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqWrU4cK97o Spotify | 4wPNy4oz3tDjY3OEeHiOVq | 1995 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/AZ-Doe-Or-Die/release/8887261 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2L47XLmdAk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrPDp_7imMM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fre4gW6xIWk | ||||
| 6728221 | Azealia Banks | Broke With Expensive Taste | 4 | Sounds like? Rap with an alt pop lean Moods Headphones on and taking in nu-NYC Thoughts I don't know why, call it a natural curiosity, but growing-up I loved the radio and would spend hours taking in anything I could hear. I find pleasure discovering sounds and appreciate art that maintains this same dynamism. It's reflected in a broader cultural awareness with my generation, whose been raised with the internet and the power of having humanity's entire cultural output instantly available. So what do you do with it? You take your favorite parts and begin creating something new, sampling in other words. I find this to be a representative album for today's sample based culture as Banks, a versatile MC, floats effortlessly between pop and rap on this impressive set of alt-electro productions (think sampling today rather than the past). I appreciate rappers who are able to carve distinct sounds for themselves and feel this is a classic in the marriage of rap and electro. Listening notes on specific time: * 212 - immediately and undeniably great * Idlest delilah / soda is glitchy greatness and a personal favorite * ‘Gimme a chance’ succeeds as an OK pop song before switching into a gripping latin bit (maybe corny but I genuinely like it). * BBD, ice princess, Yung Rapunxel take a turn into harder boomy beats that sound a little dated after the edm boom. * Things drift off towards the end, but she soars on miss camaraderie. Not sure I've heard someone flow over edm so well. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Azealia-Banks-Broke-With-Expensive-Taste/release/6728221 Listen! Spotify | 1YmJl4Cm06bArz3D560pzk | 2015 | Trap | Pop Rap | House | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Azealia-Banks-Broke-With-Expensive-Taste/release/6728221 | #REF! | |||
| 8242767 | Into It. Over It. | Standards | 3 | Sounds like? Revivalist emo singer songwriter Moods Revisiting your high school Thoughts There's a mature social introspection that separates this from the classic emo-pop I liked in my teens. Hard to deny the poppy directness of his songs, it's as if he's taken the best parts of emo songwriting and applied them as an adult songwriter. Aside from an off-putting smugness in his delivery but I found this is a satisfying listen overall. At 32 and feeds a trip down nostalgia lane while still feeling new. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Into-It-Over-It-Standards/release/8242767 Listen! Spotify | 7BQNjkNEHA5g5LUi790rAx | 2016 | Emo | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Into-It-Over-It-Standards/release/8242767 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 11966047 | Efdemin | Naïf | 2 | Sounds like? A variety of minimal electro ranging from accessible club to thumping industrial with a few experimental noise tracks thrown in for good measure Moods Berghain Thoughts Apparently this is a mix and I heard the unmixed version on Spotify so I'm totally misinformed in reviewing this. Anyhow, good minimal. The later third, starting with a track by Tobias, opens into more aggressive Berlin techno that capture the Berghain mood well. The rest were mediocre open-ended cuts that never build to anything but perhaps would take on a different meaning if mixed. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Efdemin-Na%C3%AFf/release/11966047 Listen! Spotify | 78KlGEXtCXzCF5Spl6xwNR | 2018 | Techno | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Efdemin-Na%C3%AFf/release/11966047 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 6703661 | easyFun | Deep Trouble | 2 | Sounds like? PC Music (ultra pop, borderline satire) Moods Candy coated Thoughts A watered down PC Music release. More Info https://www.discogs.com/easyFun-Deep-Trouble/release/6703661 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWGXZI6LC5Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgf7cUHiCj8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBHJ0XGZfLs Spotify | 7rxd48fkjcjNr65NhDghn8 | 2015 | Trance | Dance-pop | Euro House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/easyFun-Deep-Trouble/release/6703661 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWGXZI6LC5Q | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgf7cUHiCj8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBHJ0XGZfLs | ||
| 977370 | Kalabrese | Rumpelzirkus | 4 | Sounds like? Personal fun and funky electro (I guess discogs calls this left field electro?) Moods An electro record with feeling. Thoughts Reminds me of a slightly off kilter Lumio who shares the carefree fun quality of Koze. That description might sound cliche (and there's for sure a certain cliche cheesiness on these tracks) but there's a love and curiosity of life that's very alive in this music. These tracks run long allowing you to get into the groove. I appreciate the songwriting, tracks are layered and evolve with a natural ebb and flow. He’s become my goto artist for Friday late night working sessions in the lab. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kalabrese-Rumpelzirkus/release/977370 Listen! Spotify | 5tBW3IwQl1XCzH7uAYQb9L | 2007 | Leftfield | House | Minimal | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Kalabrese-Rumpelzirkus/release/977370 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 11972498 | Joe Armon-Jones | Starting Today | 3 | Sounds like? Hip modern funky chill jazz Moods Feeling cool Thoughts I like the instrumentation a lot, groove focused over technical playing (he played keys on that makaya mccraven ‘where we come from’ album I enjoy). Competent bass keeps a hip hop flavor alive, ‘mollison’ is great pure dub revival that I bet is a fun jam live. Vocals really detract on 'starting today' which felt forced but work on 'too far' which reminds me of thundercat in it's melancholic mantra repetition and 'London's face' where the tempo is kicked up a bit. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Joe-Armon-Jones-Starting-Today/release/11972498 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdz9jHg-mWM Spotify | 3K4byFF42qUdAM0Ien2ReC | 2018 | #VALUE! | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Joe-Armon-Jones-Starting-Today/release/11972498 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdz9jHg-mWM | |||||
| 4420013 | Kalabrese | Independent Dancer | 3 | Sounds like? Groove based 'fun’ electro Moods A ode to the joy of being lost in life Thoughts Hard not to dig a kalabrese release, his tracks are all bursting with love of the craft. Above all else this album maintains a constant groove with lots of interesting production flourishes and bursts of instrumentation that keep these extended cuts engaging. Lyrically he sings like a wanderlust euro, not the most articulate but he makes up for it in his genuineness. The addition of other vocalists is a welcome dimension. It's an album with moments of greatness but also suffers from an uneven side 2 that felt scattered. Worth a listen for sure. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kalabrese-Independent-Dancer/release/4420013 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnDgS8Hkni4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=af01NV3mqjc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQNGYgQMEaE Spotify | 5UiZ3oyLL0wiJC67Cby9Nj | 2013 | Deep House | Disco | House | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Kalabrese-Independent-Dancer/release/4420013 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnDgS8Hkni4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=af01NV3mqjc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQNGYgQMEaE |
| 11382298 | Jono Ma,Dreems | The Dreemas | 3 | Sounds like? Accessible energetic building tasteful techno Moods Kind of like jock jams for kompakt records Thoughts These are long tracks that rely on repetitive, patient builds. Engaging from the pulse they keep, with ‘love trance mission’ with its chugging core and playfulness; I hear jaguar mas production flourishes for sure. The later tracks are highlights. Still with that trance-like relentlessness but with more of a focus on melody. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jono-Ma-Dreems-The-Dreemas/release/11382298 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyJBXf6bfEA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Dovu_zGukU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBLl-1ncl5s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPyEpmk0WsM Spotify | 2018 | Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Jono-Ma-Dreems-The-Dreemas/release/11382298 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyJBXf6bfEA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Dovu_zGukU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBLl-1ncl5s | |||||
| 11103373 | Crackazat | Rainbow Fantasia | 2 | Sounds like? Sexy electro Moods Cheesy modern hotel bar Thoughts Aside from midnight in sector seven I found this to be bland. Seemed too buttoned-up and overly polished. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Crackazat-Rainbow-Fantasia/release/11103373 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oK4Slc-uSZ8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eGeqsOBv4w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLMmbQ8_oYQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUGvJkZEDZ0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czXi-Lctnuo Spotify | 4fcDna1Wh0SJBeg2gPagWW | 2017 | Deep House | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Crackazat-Rainbow-Fantasia/release/11103373 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oK4Slc-uSZ8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eGeqsOBv4w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLMmbQ8_oYQ | |||
| 4175930 | George Jackson | In Memphis 1972-77 | 3 | Sounds like? Golden age r&b / soul Moods Letting loose with the radio on Thoughts George Jackson is dripping soul. His natural charismatic groove makes up for OK songwriting and lyrics. It's an exhaustive collection so works best as background mood-music rather than party singles. The later tracks, starting with ‘you can't run away from love’, improve with some added grit. More Info https://www.discogs.com/George-Jackson-In-Memphis-1972-77/release/4175930 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94f8Q0F0vEQ Spotify | 2009 | Soul | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/George-Jackson-In-Memphis-1972-77/release/4175930 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94f8Q0F0vEQ | |||||||
| 11989814 | Eleanor Friedberger | Rebound | 2 | Sounds like? Adult contemporary Moods OK with how past relationships ended Thoughts She sings like ‘something about the girl’ which is a good thing. A variety of pop styles are covered, bubbly in some places. Only listened once but found it lacking memorableness. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Eleanor-Friedberger-Rebound/release/11989814 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmjcSz8aV1Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5jRnL4fHQA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7HeLwsAvM0 Spotify | 0oOqcEOKXsr3f6cfIfZqrX | 2018 | #VALUE! | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Eleanor-Friedberger-Rebound/release/11989814 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmjcSz8aV1Y | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5jRnL4fHQA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7HeLwsAvM0 | |||
| 3718856 | Dire Straits | Love Over Gold | 2 | Sounds like? Classic radio rock Moods Soundtrack for driving across Midwestern landscapes Thoughts Aside from the tasteful guitar work on the second half of ‘telegraph road’ I wasn't into this. Songs felt overly long with few rewarding moments. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dire-Straits-Love-Over-Gold/release/3718856 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gej3hLOLDU Spotify | 3Iz3o8owPasr8PKUSZPqD5 | 1982 | Classic Rock | Rock | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Dire-Straits-Love-Over-Gold/release/3718856 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gej3hLOLDU | |||||
| 12384951 | Mitski | Be The Cowboy | 2 | Sounds like? Lush singer-songwriter pop with a ‘big’ sound Moods A pitchfork 8.8 record Thoughts I don't get the hype on this one, mediocre in my opinion. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mitski-Be-The-Cowboy/release/12384951 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfylNmkR8dw Spotify | 653wRjqO0GOZPQPcXpeAXD | 2018 | Indie Pop | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Mitski-Be-The-Cowboy/release/12384951 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfylNmkR8dw | ||||||
| 7145364 | Abra | Rose | 3 | Sounds like? Modern r&b with sparse synth / drumpad production Moods Feels like wearing a starter jacket in 2017 Thoughts I like the style but she's kind of lacking lyrical substance. Things open up with a Spacey / subduded band vibe on tracks like rose. I liked a bunch off this. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Abra-Rose/release/7145364 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-qcz47h9zo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhe7CckB05w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CI1g4dnDtao https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSZkeg4T2u4 Spotify | 0V8UU4es3kdF1djFZKlduq | 2015 | Synth-pop | Electro | Rhythm & Blues | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Abra-Rose/release/7145364 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-qcz47h9zo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhe7CckB05w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CI1g4dnDtao |
| 4808401 | Magic Sam Blues Band | West Side Soul | 4 | Sounds like? Electric blues Moods Chicago: The Cubs Deep dish pizza Magic Sam Thoughts Electric blues, you know what you're signing up for here. Solid record. More ‘pop’ focused than I typically like my blues but it's damn near perfect. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Magic-Sam-Blues-Band-West-Side-Soul/release/4808401 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZTkj8dgGNE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83rkEm7s5es https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSc6-0xBcjE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iwoj1hUMmg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3jPsCdZgn0 Spotify | 1967 | Chicago Blues | Modern Electric Blues | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Magic-Sam-Blues-Band-West-Side-Soul/release/4808401 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZTkj8dgGNE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83rkEm7s5es | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSc6-0xBcjE | ||||
| 8469877 | Azealia Banks | Slay-Z | 1 | Sounds like? Rap edm Moods Night out, downtown Manhattan or how not to do a rap/electro crossover Thoughts More Info https://www.discogs.com/Azealia-Banks-Slay-Z/release/8469877 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXUfBxMbC3A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usDQB21uQ1A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qH90-6sCIoc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJskdaNiz6U Spotify | 0rx21GnAQNPuriKQGRzBnz | 2016 | Pop Rap | Electro | House | Electronic | Hip Hop | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Azealia-Banks-Slay-Z/release/8469877 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXUfBxMbC3A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usDQB21uQ1A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qH90-6sCIoc |
| 5029842 | Into It. Over It. | Intersections | 3 | Sounds like? New school emo Moods Introspective and sentimental - revisiting your old highschool Thoughts Intersections is the good one, standards is the lame one. Just gonna write both reviews for them here: Intersections There's a mature social introspection that separates this from the classic emo-pop I liked in my teens. Hard to deny the poppy directness of his songs, it's as if he's taken the best parts of emo songwriting and applied them as an adult songwriter. Aside from an off-putting smugness in his delivery but I found this is a satisfying listen overall. At 32 and feeds a trip down nostalgia lane while still feeling new. Standards Don't like this one as much as intersections. Pretty good for the genere, mature emo singer songwriter. Lyrics and melodies don't sink in the same way. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Into-It-Over-It-Intersections/release/5029842 Listen! Spotify | 6H9XExJeG5tqIGF9vlDYU6 | 2013 | Emo | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Into-It-Over-It-Intersections/release/5029842 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 12457187 | Tropical Fuck Storm | A Laughing Death In Meatspace | 3 | Sounds like? Dense heavy psychedelic punk Moods Protesting Thoughts Distinct heavy rock with astute protest lyrics. Perhaps too dense for regular listening, I appreciate what's happening here. It's groovy and biting with a passion that's executed well. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tropical-Fuck-Storm-A-Laughing-Death-In-Meatspace-/release/12457187 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYWHjfVtoSM Spotify | 1Q351pwqlWprsmF8fIudo6 | 2018 | Prog Rock | Experimental | Psychedelic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Tropical-Fuck-Storm-A-Laughing-Death-In-Meatspace-/release/12457187 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYWHjfVtoSM | ||||
| 12988816 | Low | Double Negative | 4 | Sounds like? Dark distorted ethereal electronic rock Moods One of 2018s best Thoughts They've taken that distorted sound that borrows from industrial (yeezus, arca, SoundCloud rap) and turned it into something poetic. I think it's best as the succinct ep disarray but it's all good stuff. Apparently a lot of the sound is credited to producer BJ Burton. There's a playlist on Spotify that samples some of his productions, worth a listen to and someone I'll be keeping a lookout for. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Low-Double-Negative/release/12988816 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1m31A4ZGss0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ob0CILJ93bA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvEozu4Obfs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5Enxzh-O9Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzMo-EpWcPA Spotify | 1zTkgOHx3mjrUvrhxq4osf | 2018 | Indie Rock | Experimental | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Low-Double-Negative/release/12988816 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1m31A4ZGss0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ob0CILJ93bA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvEozu4Obfs | |||
| 12324548 | Ross From Friends | Family Portrait | 3 | Sounds like? Lofi house is a fitting genre name Moods Refreshingly original small club Thoughts Digging this, had it on repeat straight off the bat. I've seen his name a lot recently so I think he's pretty hyped. Serves as a good middle ground between John talabot and stone's throw though the second half tapers off in quality. It's a brainfeeder release - all their stuff is worth checking out. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ross-From-Friends-Family-Portrait/release/12324548 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuZEdzpt_RY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iFxeDKwdNs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFhOJKzd5X4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7G3-Uu3OsI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXLwEZcZoCc Spotify | 40KaLF6S1fvXZ1Ufwj9pZZ | 2018 | House | Deep House | Tech House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Ross-From-Friends-Family-Portrait/release/12324548 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuZEdzpt_RY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iFxeDKwdNs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFhOJKzd5X4 | ||
| 1941575 | Miles Davis | A Tribute To Jack Johnson | 5 | Sounds like? Rock and Jazz fusion Moods Groovin - the perfect miles record for rock fans Thoughts Perhaps the most 'rock’ record in the miles discography. Purists might disagree but I think this is an exemplar of rock and jazz fusion due to it's heavy rock lean and accessibility. The mixing is weird: no single tracks but rather two lengthy sides where thing's fade into the other, often forcing unfinished ideas to come together abruptly; almost like an impatient DJ. Anyhow the music: Side 1 is the better example of the miles 'rock’ thing with a driving bass line and angular guitars propelling things forward. It’s an extended classic 70s rock jam with a groove. Side 2 is where thing's get a bit more chilled out and experimental. The music wanders and isn't as focused. Still.. things are being worked out and it's fantastic music by any means. A highlight is the moment ‘in a silent way’ breaks through. Glorious! I consider miles electric period one of the pinnacles of music and this is one of the best intros, especially for non-jazz fans. Essential music. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Miles-Davis-A-Tribute-To-Jack-Johnson/release/1941575 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8TdZFVj6tA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoH6kFbuYRQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfLvNwxnj6g Spotify | 0xr31or2qYglJpiX6pODjY | 1971 | Fusion | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Miles-Davis-A-Tribute-To-Jack-Johnson/release/1941575 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8TdZFVj6tA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoH6kFbuYRQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfLvNwxnj6g | ||||
| 236654 | The Cure | Three Imaginary Boys | 3 | Sounds like? Basic post punk Moods Of importance to those in their 20s Thoughts Need to revisit this, liked a bunch of the songs on the first half though the 2nd half waivered. I think my experience with the Cure would be very different had I been discovering them as they were releasing material. As someone most familiar with their ‘greatest hits’ this is a curious listen. They're remarkably stripped down and feel like a young post-punk band with a certain rawness I appreciate. Less dramatic then their later material, still just as emotional. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Cure-Three-Imaginary-Boys/release/236654 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okiCApJeonQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faAOrf07lHY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01VRyQlYTRY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaMMbxNXGV0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mAQCSGWHdg Spotify | 7gPql7GFpBMOxeO80vMMsC | 1979 | New Wave | Post-Punk | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Cure-Three-Imaginary-Boys/release/236654 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okiCApJeonQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faAOrf07lHY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01VRyQlYTRY | |||
| 8161912 | DJ Dodger Stadium | Stand Up And Speak | 3 | Sounds like? Energetic electro with a pop element Moods Out dancing at a clean shiny place Thoughts Quick hitting electro, tight tracks that keep the tempo up; their a talented production pair. It's not full on pop (tracks feel like they were written by beat makers rather than lyricists) but each track features an vocal loop of some sort. I believe this is the album the recruited the singers from Craigslist which is a cool idea: giving a chance to someone who needs it while keeping costs down. It's a rotating cast of singers but it felt like they homogenized their voices through too much production. The album starts off strong but has a generic feeling toward the end. More Info https://www.discogs.com/DJDS-Stand-Up-And-Speak/release/8161912 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBUil-pnNhI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tDTApVrzeU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpPwmnNNedA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBvRnp1WyM0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzMqauRDrfA Spotify | 2016 | House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/DJDS-Stand-Up-And-Speak/release/8161912 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBUil-pnNhI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tDTApVrzeU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpPwmnNNedA | |||||
| 8788672 | Johann Sebastian Bach,Glenn Gould | The Goldberg Variations | 5 | Sounds like? Solo piano sonatas Moods Perfect Thoughts I won't try and review this, there's enough written about it. However I will say per Mark Richardson's suggestion: the Bach Glenn Gould variations are two albums that must be heard in any piano lovers life. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bach-Glenn-Gould-The-Goldberg-Variations/release/8788672 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpsfhTxo5yw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2YMSt3yfko Spotify | 1aCpHSQE5ghxibsQ5gkBe0 | 1982 | Baroque | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/Bach-Glenn-Gould-The-Goldberg-Variations/release/8788672 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpsfhTxo5yw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2YMSt3yfko | |||||
| 12001410 | Mandar | String Theory | 2 | Sounds like? Whatever electro Moods Filler Thoughts It's fine electro but not really feeling it overall. ‘Poison words’ is a bit better but not much happening here. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mandar-String-Theory/release/12001410 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svScti6R3lQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzeFE3GfXnY Spotify | 072c84jsgTqoMsCpK7K22M | 2018 | Tech House | Minimal | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Mandar-String-Theory/release/12001410 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svScti6R3lQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzeFE3GfXnY | ||||
| 10402048 | Dauwd | Theory Of Colours | 4 | Sounds like? Chilled out electro Moods sorta like downtempo but not as down Thoughts Layered intelligent electro with a nice energy. Nocturnal feeling. Tasteful keys at times. Particularly like the energetic haze laid out on tracks such as analogische memories. Drifts into an almost bland territory at times but still great. I come back to this record ever few months and it's holding up. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dauwd-Theory-Of-Colours/release/10402048 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqhq8vtSfNA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VMoLqPqK6s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Eqcee-pUm0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7Q0_XEKb0k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjB2koTyujw Spotify | 6oIrL0YBYT6T6tXVF3LBVY | 2017 | Deep House | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Dauwd-Theory-Of-Colours/release/10402048 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqhq8vtSfNA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VMoLqPqK6s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Eqcee-pUm0 | |||
| 10040768 | Wes Montgomery | A Day In The Life | 2 | Sounds like? Light guitar driven jazz Moods Wedding cocktail reception Thoughts A bunch of covers done in this kinda corny, guitar driven light jazz; overly dramatic string arrangements don't really help things much. As much as I don't like this record I do include these tracks in mixes when entertaining. Easily recognizable melodies in this 'soft’ format serve well as background music. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Wes-Montgomery-A-Day-In-The-Life/release/10040768 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjHiSePn1ts https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86oaCxW2daU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0KZk2Ojxn8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJyarNALJFc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vp4O3fOLy8 Spotify | 74ZXeJWQUZmewROkyXpPHT | 1967 | Smooth Jazz | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Wes-Montgomery-A-Day-In-The-Life/release/10040768 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjHiSePn1ts | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86oaCxW2daU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0KZk2Ojxn8 | |
| 10084727 | Hippo Campus | Landmark | 3 | Sounds like? An indie band with pro production Moods Remember that godawful song 'holiday' by vampire weekend? These songs capture that memorable poppy summerness featuring lyrics that are comfortable yet inquisitive. Thoughts Hate to keep using other bands to describe hippo campus but this reminds me of early Phoenix with some production flair. Works well, there are some all out classics on that I think a lot of people would enjoy. ‘Vacation’ is probably the best example with it's anthem worthy hook and shimmering mellow vibe like a chillwave version of pavement for today's 20 somethings. BJ Burton produced this. The more I hear his work I realize he's developing a track record of seriously good music. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Hippo-Campus-Landmark/release/10084727 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3TQKEUne5Q Spotify | 0vb1g018puu47StlIi9wxC | 2017 | Indie Pop | Indie Rock | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Hippo-Campus-Landmark/release/10084727 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3TQKEUne5Q | ||||
| 5863560 | DJ Dodger Stadium | Friend Of Mine | 3 | Sounds like? Jacked up Chicago house Moods Sweaty Thoughts I'd say the best DJDS album to check out. This is pumping with energy, like Chicago's answer to Daft Punk’s Homework. Songs will have a looped lyric but that's the extent of vocals, focus is primarily on the club-like productions. As an album it's a bit much to listen to straight through as an album, feels like these tracks works best as singles. Overall the album builds to a high finish with suggested tracks 'the dust' and 'friend of mine’ capping things off. More Info https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Dodger-Stadium-Friend-Of-Mine/release/5863560 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qi11LVYL8g4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ya5pK1rOKaU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV4Gk4I-VX8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhJqVQ7vXyM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa6B2UbASIo Spotify | 2014 | House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/DJ-Dodger-Stadium-Friend-Of-Mine/release/5863560 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qi11LVYL8g4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ya5pK1rOKaU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV4Gk4I-VX8 | |||||
| 7573156 | King Midas Sound,Fennesz | Edition 1 | 3 | Sounds like? trip hop, dub and ethereal electro ( both and neither ) with strings and noise Moods Feels like a slow sick day off work where your head is congested and words sounds like their filtered through a cotton ball. But you're warm and cozy with a comforter pulled up to your chin. Everything is bathed in bright white winter light so it's easy to see the dust floating around your room. The stillness is a welcome change of pace, might not be a perfect day but you know it'll pass. ~ Shadowy positiveness. Thoughts Reminds me of yo la tengo quiet moments. I can't imagine a whole lot of times when I'm going to put this on in the future but I enjoyed it. The tempo is slow, crawling at times, so this does requires a certain patience or mindset; it's a rewarding listen if you're in it however. Lyrically tracks like ‘melt’ and ‘lighthouse’ capture a certain beauty in their directness. The production is beautiful, extremely well crafted with strings, ambient , bits of static noise for warmth (reminds me of burial). More Info https://www.discogs.com/King-Midas-Sound-Fennesz-Edition-1/release/7573156 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pf1DO_SIHTM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MC3hXI_nVoM Spotify | 2015 | Downtempo | Experimental | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/King-Midas-Sound-Fennesz-Edition-1/release/7573156 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pf1DO_SIHTM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MC3hXI_nVoM | ||||
| 11091333 | Loft | Three Settlements Four Ways | 2 | Sounds like? Future club Moods At the future club they like bass no dance Thoughts Didn't dig too much first listen. Filton recal leads things off well - techno but with a chilled out thing going on. Things keep building in intensity and 'out there' kind of techno. Just not really my thing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Loft-Three-Settlements-Four-Ways/release/11091333 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S908T9fWX1A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=472oXxV2ajM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0F3LgO1XQu4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWR4PuSW0Ck Spotify | 0vwAv8XGfD9MXVacVGOLLa | 2017 | Techno | Dubstep | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Loft-Three-Settlements-Four-Ways/release/11091333 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S908T9fWX1A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=472oXxV2ajM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0F3LgO1XQu4 | |||
| 10192239 | Sylvan Esso | What Now | 3 | Sounds like? nu-school electro/synth alt-pop Moods Fun Thoughts Pretty good overall with some standouts like just dancing. Memorable pop songs with good production, good if you want something easy and danceable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sylvan-Esso-What-Now/release/10192239 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgPIW8AtdSE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=effZUjig794 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYeGMw21fgM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-_NNIX8cDA Spotify | 1BJMCEXQ7JmuVlJ6cYbe3x | 2017 | Indie Pop | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Sylvan-Esso-What-Now/release/10192239 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgPIW8AtdSE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=effZUjig794 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYeGMw21fgM | |||
| 2608416 | Francis Lai | Un Homme Et Une Femme (Bande Originale Du Film) | 2 | Sounds like? French Samba Moods Cigarettes on the Champs-Elysées Thoughts I liked parts but the samba is kinda corny overall More Info https://www.discogs.com/Francis-Lai-Un-Homme-Et-Une-Femme-Bande-Originale-Du-Film/release/2608416 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SRzGV1Vtgk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTPpwZ1-ELc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e8jjXaMkus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlIGpTti3UQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljt5kCbuGhA Spotify | 1966 | Soundtrack | Ballad | Jazz | Stage & Screen | https://www.discogs.com/Francis-Lai-Un-Homme-Et-Une-Femme-Bande-Originale-Du-Film/release/2608416 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SRzGV1Vtgk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTPpwZ1-ELc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e8jjXaMkus | |||
| 12072616 | 700 Bliss | Spa 700 | 2 | Sounds like? Experimental middle eastern based electronic music with spoken word raps Moods Bandcamp experimental Thoughts Ring the alarm is damn good. The rest has a militant vibe I couldn't really get into, didn't really fit the Spacey future bass electro production. More Info https://www.discogs.com/700-Bliss-Spa-700/release/12072616 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCRU9UWGKys https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De9WWPYy1Wo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3b677kvS0g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvTAmiZY9ZQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhpJ5ILMRzc Spotify | 1nImBHe7OAQPIAmGEzqPNf | 2018 | Experimental | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/700-Bliss-Spa-700/release/12072616 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCRU9UWGKys | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De9WWPYy1Wo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3b677kvS0g | |||
| 3094292 | Lee Morgan | Caramba | 3 | Sounds like? post bop Moods jivey dinner party Thoughts The title track stands out but the rest I thought was just ok, good from a post-bop perspective. Great instrumentation, especially Morgan's trumpet playing, so it's hard not to enjoy if you're into jazz. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-Caramba/release/3094292 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArqJanZPY9A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXDRzy2Xip4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGn3HKIlj4s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBx9ktBnb4E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbTtUHi6bxM Spotify | 2PuNs9smngMluKrgaABloP | 1996 | Hard Bop | Post Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-Caramba/release/3094292 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArqJanZPY9A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXDRzy2Xip4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGn3HKIlj4s | |||
| 12494167 | Szun Waves | New Hymn To Freedom | 4 | Sounds like? Modern atmospheric jazz rock with electronic textures Moods Live at pompeii for spiritual robots Thoughts A modern spiritual jazz-rock record. Effective use of synths modernizes things and adds an interesting texture. Perhaps the only true rock element is the percussion which feels like it keeps things moving forward in rock fashion. Couple of highlights: Fall into water- spacey and patient. High szun maybe a bit more rock oriented. Certain tension is maintained with a noisy keyboard layer. Works while patient solos build around it. Quite enjoyed this release. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Szun-Waves-New-Hymn-To-Freedom/release/12494167 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAO60apkxEo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNEmFHrdNdA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdaHQESTu4U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R12-Qn4g72Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Txraa21q8FQ Spotify | 3FXX5Ei597G8R8zj9viaqK | 2018 | Contemporary Jazz | Experimental | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Szun-Waves-New-Hymn-To-Freedom/release/12494167 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAO60apkxEo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNEmFHrdNdA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdaHQESTu4U | ||
| 12135628 | Bluestaeb | Everything Is Always a Process | 3 | Sounds like? Hip hop beats with a backbone of 80s gfunk Moods Cali cool Thoughts Modern and slick production with just the right amount of vocals mixed in. Couple notes on tracks: Left and right being a better track. Goes into a light r&b thing at times. Hot shit is a bit forced, taking the original and scrubbing it if it's rawness. Mind control is ok While the album is uneven and boring at times I like it overall. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bluestaeb-Everything-Is-Always-a-Process/release/12135628 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X3kqctM9lQ Spotify | 29J7Z1vaQqGmfHzMYYyWdB | 2018 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Bluestaeb-Everything-Is-Always-a-Process/release/12135628 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X3kqctM9lQ | ||||||
| 8804120 | Abra | Princess | 3 | Sounds like? Indie modern r&b Moods Promiscuous r&b Thoughts I like this kind of r&b. Free, easy sorta guilty pleasure. Production works well and she's created a persona that works even if it's trying to attention grabbing in it's straightforwardness More Info https://www.discogs.com/Abra-Princess/release/8804120 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsNzPAOQEnE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I-POWtEJ8U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvVJx7dcoqo Spotify | 0bOxQkMO65N7QoNALqq5H5 | 2016 | Contemporary R&B | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Abra-Princess/release/8804120 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsNzPAOQEnE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I-POWtEJ8U | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvVJx7dcoqo | ||
| 508465 | Michael Shrieve,Kevin Shrieve,Klaus Schulze | Transfer Station Blue | 2 | Sounds like? A group of guys playing 'grandiose' 80s new age synthesizer Moods Welcome to the machine Thoughts I felt I spent most of the album waiting for something to happen. Things finally kick-in on the title track and gets a nice groove going.just not something I really feel like revisiting as a whole More Info https://www.discogs.com/Michael-Shrieve-with-Kevin-Shrieve-and-Klaus-Schulze-Transfer-Station-Blue/release/508465 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDsfacgTnXY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhMZ57BNxU4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7w9jlVKAAiE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4Rpx_tfwn4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkwTGBWFMt8 Spotify | 2dmHljk3D9JBpdygyqT5p1 | 1984 | Experimental | Prog Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Michael-Shrieve-with-Kevin-Shrieve-and-Klaus-Schulze-Transfer-Station-Blue/release/508465 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDsfacgTnXY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhMZ57BNxU4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7w9jlVKAAiE | ||
| 4561199 | Paul & Linda McCartney | Ram | 4 | Sounds like? Peak McCartney songwriting Moods A car driven by guitar Thoughts Fun rock with a moving energy. Paul covers a range of styles from Golden age rock and roll on ‘smile away’ to a Beatles like medley on ‘Uncle Albert’. This is good chord driven pop at its heart by one of the world's best songwriters. Lyrically things are a little freewheeling and goofy at times but it works. I found this to be seriously good on my first few listens, might become a personal classic if given enough time. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Paul-Linda-McCartney-Ram/release/4561199 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5qymNPUb1s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2eWWS0QMlc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Swl9Iqh6DQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrthE_waCV8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8pulOnIE5Q Spotify | 03quwfxVOzXduvxgawbLRn | 1971 | Pop Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Paul-Linda-McCartney-Ram/release/4561199 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5qymNPUb1s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2eWWS0QMlc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Swl9Iqh6DQ | ||||
| 8143859 | Cavern Of Anti-Matter | Void Beats/Invocation Trex | 3 | Sounds like? Krautrock open ended free flowing jams Moods A ringing E chord and three-dee melodie Thoughts Consider this an extension of Stereolab as it's led by Tim Gane. At times they mimic Stereolab and CAN with the organ and spritely bounce so often employed in their songs. I'd say these guys are a bit more laid back and not quite as tight. There's an exploratory rhythm and that's perhaps what invokes CAN, each beat feels like they're chugging into new territory and comfortable with wherever they end up (perhaps this natural optimism is what makes stereolab so infectious). Pantechnicon is a good one, the keys feel a bit more fun and it signals a more melodic shift overall. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Cavern-Of-Anti-Matter-Void-BeatsInvocation-Trex/release/8143859 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIPfPQslS-s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njkK_YO6Zt0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVNhXIaXtFI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2dZ46U2pl8 Spotify | 7vDuLO8bzESr0BF7wWgaPX | 2016 | Post Rock | Electro | Krautrock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Cavern-Of-Anti-Matter-Void-BeatsInvocation-Trex/release/8143859 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIPfPQslS-s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njkK_YO6Zt0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVNhXIaXtFI | |
| 9290528 | Jim James | Eternally Even | 2 | Sounds like? Dark indie rock, folk Moods Chilly breath of death Thoughts First time I heard this I was driving upstate late on a Friday night in winter. The empty roads, cold dry winter landscape outside with closed shops providing the only break in landscape seemed a fitting scene for this soundtrack. I like his style: ethereal, nocturnal and dusky natural singing voice doused in reverb. I found the straightforward pop songwriting a bit boring as an album however. The ‘we ain't getting any younger’ refrain has stuck with me, something particularly effective about it. I plan to revisit this and more of his catalog in the future. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jim-James-Eternally-Even/release/9290528 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u67Tf0lbgzY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-5JUqv8LcY Spotify | 2wYw4vZlu7XwvtdQPRmsmL | 2016 | #VALUE! | Rock | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Jim-James-Eternally-Even/release/9290528 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u67Tf0lbgzY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-5JUqv8LcY | ||||
| 11979710 | Fitz Ambro$e, Submerse | Villa Rosa | 3 | Sounds like? electro hip hop with an 80s light funk vibe Moods Vaporwave sunset Thoughts Pretty good for a background listen. Short and sweet with flirtations of vaporwave. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Fitz-Ambroe-Submerse-Villa-Rosa/release/11979710 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PqePdh9r0s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0_4Mqvk9fk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPv4JXG3QWE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrSzoVRPOqQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xKrOIVQsdg Spotify | 1GsE5gYYOAXs08oJr4SQTz | 2018 | Ambient | Electronic | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Fitz-Ambroe-Submerse-Villa-Rosa/release/11979710 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PqePdh9r0s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0_4Mqvk9fk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPv4JXG3QWE | |||
| 196682 | The Books | The Lemon Of Pink | 4 | Sounds like? String acoustic sample electro experimental Moods There's a creative thread here that's awesome to watch unravel, I love revisiting this album Thoughts I've come back to this album a lot over the years, why? Partially because it sounds lovely: an intimate folk album that incorporates just the right amount of sample based electro elements. I particularly love the first few songs but always find myself staying for the entirety. The primary reason I keep coming back is due to an inspiring feeling that isn't easy to capture in music. It's almost as if you can feel the creative push at work, forcing themselves to explore new territory. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Books-The-Lemon-Of-Pink/release/196682 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiXpi5u5Vu8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiuC8A8eKu4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FC0jSezdwTU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1irbhY_dgY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ku-g3LiBxmg Spotify | 1JxWnsOCOeYeAeDwInNww4 | 2003 | Leftfield | Alternative Rock | Folk Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Books-The-Lemon-Of-Pink/release/196682 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiXpi5u5Vu8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiuC8A8eKu4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FC0jSezdwTU | |
| 10167287 | Hot Tuna | Burgers | 2 | Sounds like? rocking country/folk Moods Outside folksy sing along Thoughts I appreciate moments of this especially when songs are more bluesy than folksy. Overall too hokey even with the fantastic musicianship. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Hot-Tuna-Burgers/release/10167287 Listen! Spotify | 0NWwuGPSfuj9H0OMUDikws | 1972 | Blues Rock | Rock | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Hot-Tuna-Burgers/release/10167287 | #REF! | |||||
| 12555469 | Maka, Durkin | Waterproof | 2 | Sounds like? White boy modern r&b, young thug Moods Fake hipster Thoughts I sorta like this, it's carefree fun; maybe need a drink with it. The sound feels superfluous, like they're trying to capitalize on a trendy vibe rather than a true inspiration. It reminds me of that vampire weekend side project 'discovery’ but not as good. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Maka-9-Durkin-Waterproof/release/12555469 Listen! Spotify | 0RpvDH4KGdFlxp8WdjOBZk | 2018 | House | Dancehall | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Maka-9-Durkin-Waterproof/release/12555469 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 2853717 | Pauline Oliveros | The Roots Of The Moment | 2 | Sounds like? an accordian being drawn out over an hour Moods A strange horror soundtrack Thoughts I guess there's something here. Definitely different. Feel like the limits of avant-garde are stretched to a place I'm not interested in going. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Pauline-Oliveros-The-Roots-Of-The-Moment/release/2853717 Listen! Spotify | 1990 | Contemporary | Experimental | Electronic | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/Pauline-Oliveros-The-Roots-Of-The-Moment/release/2853717 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 12548164 | Prince | Piano & A Microphone 1983 | 5 | Sounds like? Prince singing while playing the piano Moods An intimate session with the purple one Thoughts An interesting artifact that I think all Prince fans should hear once. Here we have a sketchbook like view of Prince's songwriting process (Purple rain, for instance, is just a brief thought in this session. It would be fleshed out months later). Intimacy is immediately established given the stripped down nature of this recording: gone are the sequenced to perfection drum machines and synths that would obscure him at times. It's as if you're hearing him with his guard is down and the beauty of his songwriting takes center stage. While Prince's multi instrumentation ability is common knowledge here we learn he's a fantastic piano player, effortlessly toying with melody. I see, feel and understand his soulful approach to music better after listening to this. Not because of the final product but the heart that goes into it. Essential listening and gem in his esteemed catalog. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Prince-Piano-A-Microphone-1983/release/12548164 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5-HEBGPzFM Spotify | 6gbmDvcU1JDPy1niL6YFJY | 2018 | Ballad | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Prince-Piano-A-Microphone-1983/release/12548164 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5-HEBGPzFM | ||||||
| 12014380 | Emily Sprague | Water Memory | 4 | Sounds like? wide open ambient made with modular synths and winds Moods Observing water shimmering on a wall Thoughts Quality ambient with a relaxing atmosphere, reminds me of masters like Eno. A patient listen (or as background, it's ambient after all) is engaging through movement, both in individual songs and on the album as a whole. Ambient while generally pleasant can often feel monotonous and stale, she finds just the right balance. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Emily-A-Sprague-Water-Memory/release/12014380 Listen! Spotify | 7GFnprDHbH3BkxjCiOH0k6 | 2017 | Ambient | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Emily-A-Sprague-Water-Memory/release/12014380 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 6393753 | Greyscalesound | Hologram | 3 | Sounds like? hip trapping with elements of vaporwave and hip hop mixed in Moods 2020 Urban city headphone music Thoughts Engaging and accessible due to a forward energy. Trap at its heart, he flirts with modern electro styles but never commits, leaving this fresh and varied. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Greyscalesound-Hologram/release/6393753 Listen! Spotify | 3TxZLM1MHZh5n1jY2tXOr7 | 2014 | Experimental | Vaporwave | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Greyscalesound-Hologram/release/6393753 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 5559093 | SOHN | Tremors | 3 | Sounds like? serious, dramatic, dark electro pop Moods sexy scandinavian Thoughts Enjoyable pop with some interesting ideas. I guess I like this, the album all kind of blends together through very similar and basic electro production. It's slick no doubt but a little dry and impersonal with vague lyrical themes. Reminds me of apparat. More Info https://www.discogs.com/S-O-H-N-Tremors/release/5559093 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlLJcbK7Xiw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AslPYSm7jfg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0AX03wZH90 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9btsq496hkQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWpvoylTLO8 Spotify | 6xGF4UA9pQweZI5yUBFlRq | 2014 | Synth-pop | Downtempo | Contemporary R&B | Electronic | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/S-O-H-N-Tremors/release/5559093 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlLJcbK7Xiw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AslPYSm7jfg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0AX03wZH90 | |
| 12615542 | J. Balvin | Vibras | 3 | Sounds like? Classy reggaeton Moods 👏👏 Thoughts First I've heard this dude, like what I'm hearing and see a lot of potential in this style. Guess it's kind of similar to r&b/rap or some other global hybrid that's become the recent trend. Anyways it works: good upbeat energy with that classic reggaeton bump keeping it alive. What separates this from the corny bodega beat is solid production that gives this a sleek sexy modern appeal. Tracks are better towards the beginning but it works overall. Suggested for fans of global pop. More Info https://www.discogs.com/J-Balvin-Vibras/release/12615542 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZcQNebnWrU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnJ6LuUFpMo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzgw0XldTC0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTs1RFjWidU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zn4dAuZ2RU Spotify | 5kprdYds6oZb4iSldfflOT | 2018 | Reggaeton | Latin | https://www.discogs.com/J-Balvin-Vibras/release/12615542 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZcQNebnWrU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnJ6LuUFpMo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzgw0XldTC0 | ||||
| 12448883 | Maribou State | Kingdoms In Colour | 3 | Sounds like? polished and well produced electro pop. Has a seriousness and rock aspect to it, an approach like downtempo. Moods Sounds like a show for 30 somethings thrown by Spotify and Stella Artois at a 'loft space’ with visible air ducts Thoughts The album takes a bit of time to get going but I like it. At times it feels generic and overly polished but tracks are rich and varied enough thanks to the great guests (Holly walker's vocals adding the most). They seem like they'd be fun live. Just the right amount of positive energy while still maintaining an open jam feel. Reminds me of thievery corporation. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Maribou-State-Kingdoms-In-Colour/release/12448883 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT78T4jcMsI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vtvvdtzk4dw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwujOBXy1Fo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyX3EWdtbmA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAgJG6yJ5U8 Spotify | 70FGsJuLXPQHYdKmEZZFq9 | 2018 | Post Rock | Downtempo | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Maribou-State-Kingdoms-In-Colour/release/12448883 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT78T4jcMsI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vtvvdtzk4dw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwujOBXy1Fo | ||
| 176683 | Nao Tokui | Mind The Gap | 3 | Sounds like? Minimal electro / tech house / ambient / IDM Moods Cold winter light Thoughts Solid minimal record. *Blips* and *bleeps*. Uses production noise like warm record hiss to create additional character and atmosphere. Not much in the way of songwriting, this is more about mood, but there's enough of a house bump to keep this moving. Things pickup with 'rotation' and ‘pine ave’, blurring the lines between ambient and IDM. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Nao-Tokui-Mind-The-Gap/release/176683 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvh3u6zPmtw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DZrv_A4CPs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESrzFDBIZcA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3M7ckJyWj0 Spotify | 7iKSsVV5NxGDPsilNUM6St | 2003 | Abstract | IDM | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Nao-Tokui-Mind-The-Gap/release/176683 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvh3u6zPmtw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DZrv_A4CPs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESrzFDBIZcA | ||
| 450722 | American Football | American Football | 3 | Sounds like? Golden age emo meets math rock Moods Songs I play when walking over to your place Thoughts Adds to the typical somber 'classic' emo format with well timed brass and tasteful/tight percussion. All of this additional instrumentation is good with songwriting that builds in a skillful way. I think it's a stretch to call this emo jazz as it's referenced on Wikipedia but it's distinct enough to call out. ‘Honestly’ is a great highlight showing the strengths of this album: mellow catchy introspection breaking into an extended jam type thing; letting emotion and tension playout in a natural way. You can feel the frustration and confusion of a breakup. This type of genuineness is what drew me to emo initially and is captured beautifully here. Recommended for golden age emo fans who need something more than the pop-punk mold. More Info https://www.discogs.com/American-Football-American-Football/release/450722 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NfnXdXpjL0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uj2JpvsvX4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CU4VGgX0nA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsCBUK_mvY4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mr_DMGZ-JrY Spotify | 3wRBlpk5PRoixwOnLujTal | 1999 | Alternative Rock | Emo | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/American-Football-American-Football/release/450722 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NfnXdXpjL0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uj2JpvsvX4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CU4VGgX0nA | ||
| 6525989 | Gavin Bryars | Allegresco / Alaric I or II / Three Elegies | 3 | Sounds like? Contemporary classical, a group of clarinets Moods Contemplative, rich Thoughts I believe this is a compilation and each piece should be considered individually: * allegrasco is pretty good * alaric I ou II is a little slow which is effectively just a boring solo * three elegies is the highlight which features three pieces building with repetition, a tactic only found in modern compositions. Its best displayed in part 3 where a feeling of conclusion is reached. Incorporating more and more of the orchestra. I'll likely seek out his more regarded compositions in the future but three elegies is worth a listen for the modern classical fan. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Gavin-Bryars-Allegresco-Alaric-I-or-II-Three-Elegies/release/6525989 Listen! Spotify | 1998 | Contemporary | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/Gavin-Bryars-Allegresco-Alaric-I-or-II-Three-Elegies/release/6525989 | #VALUE! | |||||||
| 12269361 | The Internet | Hive Mind | 3 | Sounds like? Chilled out r&b indie rock Moods Lights dim low Thoughts Enjoyable but nothing particularly ambitious or new. Easy funk. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Internet-Hive-Mind/release/12269361 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NB3gWkhLkxM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xyDg9Tco5s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIqvRzEIqIo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRbYJ66RpHk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIgkFRZV-4k Spotify | 27ThgFMUAx3MXLQ297DzWF | 2018 | Contemporary R&B | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/The-Internet-Hive-Mind/release/12269361 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NB3gWkhLkxM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xyDg9Tco5s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIqvRzEIqIo | |||
| 10555671 | Boundary | Fantasmagórico | 3 | Sounds like? indie produced synth electro. Moods Modern version of the Bandersnatch soundtrack Thoughts 80s and basic. Glitchy vaporware with ambient synths. Video Games. Has a Spanish rhythmic flair to it though I'm not always crazy about the sequenced drum machine, gives it a robotic feel. Draws from daft punk acid house at times. IDM. Arpeggios remind me of vintage prog rock. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Boundary-Fantasmag%C3%B3rico/release/10555671 Listen! Spotify | 0R3MKEr7o2XA5gsO8FIzS3 | 2017 | Experimental | Acid House | IDM | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Boundary-Fantasmag%C3%B3rico/release/10555671 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 12679811 | Future, Juice WRLD | WRLD On Drugs | 2 | Sounds like? poppy trap rap Moods Big ballin at the mall Thoughts This is my introduction to juice wrld. A nu-school rapper with a style that makes use of autotuned melodies. Lil Uzi was my first exposure to that kind of thing and I prefer him overall, as he is naturally more distinct. Future serves as a welcome juxtaposition to juice wrld with his more aggressive dark 'street' stutter. The poppy production is fun and makes for an overall easy album(actually really like the production on 'no issue’). Unfortunately the whole thing feels.half-assed: a couple of pretty good singles at the start and then a bunch of filler. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Future-4-Juice-WRLD-WRLD-On-Drugs/release/12679811 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQgjRsr1W1k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbzfAUSELtI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAfdAlzGgdA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXiGiAsYAR8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ql8VcSMmlkI Spotify | 6P9PZjWXoCRF5b66BafPKY | 2018 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Future-4-Juice-WRLD-WRLD-On-Drugs/release/12679811 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQgjRsr1W1k | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbzfAUSELtI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAfdAlzGgdA | ||||
| 2884852 | Gene Ammons' All Stars | The Big Sound | 3 | Sounds like? Sax centered bop Moods background music at a jiving dinner party with the neighbors Thoughts Lots of ammons here, a tenor player I wasn't familiar with. He's good, great in fact, but this is limited in enjoyment as I'm not crazy about bop overall. Coltrane plays Alto on the real McCoy which is a curiosity on its own. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Gene-Ammons-All-Stars-The-Big-Sound/release/2884852 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6GHN_-NWL8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcCuEkphSvU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH07y7nLF1g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm7cFZIMs04 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPycViCDXjg Spotify | 0jmT4AN8QrKrLozWBxUS7m | 1958 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Gene-Ammons-All-Stars-The-Big-Sound/release/2884852 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6GHN_-NWL8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcCuEkphSvU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH07y7nLF1g | ||||
| 12511643 | House of Feelings | New Lows | 3 | Sounds like? modern productions of golden age NY house with observational, self reflective lyrics delivered in mantra like form. Moods Tired of the club but still wanna dance Thoughts This feels like a genuine record. It takes a house sound that I remember, updates the production (using precise songwriting) and adds great vocals singing about thoughts / anxieties that I ruminate over (love, technological anxieties). Jamming on: most tracks but ‘you ain't so big’ and ‘body’ make a nice pair. More Info https://www.discogs.com/House-of-Feelings-New-Lows/release/12511643 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iyt-GJYvCCc Spotify | 6ij3iCo6LBsjxsU2auguto | 2018 | House | Techno | Disco | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/House-of-Feelings-New-Lows/release/12511643 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iyt-GJYvCCc | ||||
| 11661002 | Eddie Ruscha | Who Are You | 4 | Sounds like? spacey ambient new age guitar electro Moods Floating on a groove Thoughts Positive vibe: both ambient and pleasant space rock. More Info https://www.discogs.com/E-Ruscha-V-Who-Are-You/release/11661002 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4kfGw7agMg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xK_iXt-KIIo Spotify | 2018 | Leftfield | Ambient | Downtempo | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/E-Ruscha-V-Who-Are-You/release/11661002 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4kfGw7agMg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xK_iXt-KIIo | ||||
| 9999158 | Drake | More Life: A Playlist By October Firm | 4 | Sounds like? Drake's signature pop-rap and r&b with production that incorporates uk grime and dancehall Moods Mature and well traveled Thoughts I'm not a Drake fan. He does his thing, and I respect it, but it's too smooth and that drawl is tiring; I've never been able to make it through one of his albums in the past. His production.. that's something else. Noah Shebib's dark, ambient production has been a major factor in Drake's success and fits his 'sad’ vibe perfectly. On More Life we're treated to a great selection of tracks that show how he's pushed the incorporation of global dancehall into pop music. This sound had been straddling the breakout point for years but I credit Drake for pushing it over. He does so with a plethora of guests and features that works well in as an overall collection. Best of all he's not always front and center so that drawl doesn't wear and you can appreciate his honest quality in appropriate doses. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Drake-More-Life-A-Playlist-By-October-Firm/release/9999158 Listen! Spotify | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Drake-More-Life-A-Playlist-By-October-Firm/release/9999158 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VHz9Edo_Vk | |||||||
| 12672312 | Neneh Cherry | Broken Politics | 4 | Sounds like? alt pop with a production style that borrows from trip hop Moods Abstract introspection Thoughts This got a lot of play from me. I really enjoy the personalness of this album, feels like you're getting very close to neneh. Instrumentation seems to consist of a small band with piano and percussion (xylophone, maracas, marimba) featuring on a number of tracks. Trip hop, especially the ones that feature del naja, with dark electronics in certain places. Tracks like synchronised devotion and poem daddy really contribute to the personal vibe with their slow poetic confessional delivery. She's at her best when she's really swinging for it with currents of trip hop like long and deep vein. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Neneh-Cherry-Broken-Politics/release/12672312 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6ivBXh1zGQ Spotify | 0FVXJcJqnDaXMMUezuyszp | 2018 | Trip Hop | Electronic | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Neneh-Cherry-Broken-Politics/release/12672312 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6ivBXh1zGQ | |||||
| 12572865 | North Americans | Going Steady | 3 | Sounds like? instrumental acoustic guitar album with a pleasant vibe Moods Comfortable autumn sweater Thoughts basic and chilled out, not a thing I'd turn on very active listening but as atmosphere its enjoyable (think folksy Sunday morning). While an instrumental acoustic album it maintains energy and there's a bit of variety with what sounds like pedal steel at times. More Info https://www.discogs.com/North-Americans-Going-Steady/release/12572865 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2QEzuob9yw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF1prRX96J8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXiPzTwRUsI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5RvKCWEX4Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npJ6UoMreew Spotify | 2e633cmONgIjIC2hfxn3bf | 2018 | #VALUE! | Folk | World | & Country | https://www.discogs.com/North-Americans-Going-Steady/release/12572865 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2QEzuob9yw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF1prRX96J8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXiPzTwRUsI | ||
| 5230312 | Lorde | Pure Heroine | 2 | Sounds like? Pop with a very distinct nonchalance and sparse dark production. Moods Inner white girl Thoughts Overly hyped, this is just ok. Like her sound but the songwriting is very generic. I guess this bored kind of style is notable but probably not the right demographic for this. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lorde-Pure-Heroine/release/5230312 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8Ymd-OCucs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlcIKh6sBtc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pstVCGyaUBM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2JuxM-snGc Spotify | 2013 | Synth-pop | Indie Pop | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Lorde-Pure-Heroine/release/5230312 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8Ymd-OCucs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlcIKh6sBtc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pstVCGyaUBM | ||||
| 1073285 | Wilco | Yankee Hotel Foxtrot | 5 | Sounds like? An American rock folk alternative band Moods A calmly anxious American masterpiece Thoughts It took awhile for me to recognize the genius here. I think I was too young when I first heard it, I wasn't drawn to it's sound. Even now I wouldn't recommend this to anyone under 30, the essence is lost without that unnerving only adulthood can provide. At surface level it's boring adult pop, listen a little closer and you'll hear solid American folk songs. Backed by light (mostly) and tight instrumentation, it's just the right amount of precise while not feeling overly polished; a quality which typically bothers me but here it fits. Tweedy's got a pleasant voice and is an exceptional lyricist, switching between abstract thoughts and relatable lyrics on love. Few writers can capture anxiety, in its many forms, so poetically. It's his ability that elevates this album, turning these dense subjects into carthic singalongs. Ultimately the listener is left with a feeling of hope through the reliability in his words. True art captures some element of the human condition and I think Wilco nailed it on Yankee hotel foxtrot Anyone who's ever experienced that spinning out of control feeling will understand the value of something grounded. The perfect soundtrack for something as enjoyable as a pleasant autumn day or as heavy as your car ride after checking out of the insane asylum. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Wilco-Yankee-Hotel-Foxtrot/release/1073285 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gupjrl5ZSX0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBhj73WtiZU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlxH9-TYseY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efq95Pfqt5U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKj5xIp4Kkg Spotify | 0rPtXOMN42nsLDiShvGamv | 2002 | Alternative Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Wilco-Yankee-Hotel-Foxtrot/release/1073285 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gupjrl5ZSX0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBhj73WtiZU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlxH9-TYseY | ||||
| 435058 | Donald Byrd | Places And Spaces | 4 | Sounds like? energetic jazz funk, has a bit of disco too Moods 70’s Thoughts I like the Donald Byrd + Mizell brothers brand of hip jazz funk that he was cranking out in the 70s (excellent article by bluenote that lays out the history http://www.bluenote.com/spotlight/disco-byrd-donald-byrd-in-the-70s ). This is one of the better albums if that era, sounds a little dated but the smooth soul still works. There's an excellent interplay between the musicians. Even with Byrd himself, he'll drop in for a trumpet solo but it never feels fully focused on him; more just part of an overall vibe. Tracks feature super tight drumming, string arrangements, picking bass, Byrd's trumpet hovering around and sometimes cheesy lyrics (my only major fault). Night Whistler is probably my favorite where an effect laden trumpet loop adds some interesting character. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Donald-Byrd-Places-And-Spaces/release/435058 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1vDcSPs_6I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3bdrBPFh2Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU1PyzEVPdg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chxtrT591oU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tFRIsRbEO0 Spotify | 1975 | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Donald-Byrd-Places-And-Spaces/release/435058 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1vDcSPs_6I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3bdrBPFh2Q | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU1PyzEVPdg | |||||
| 4378698 | Marnie Stern | The Chronicles Of Marnia | 3 | Sounds like? edgy pop punk alt indie rock Moods Live show, small club Thoughts Like it, has an accessible popiness to it while still maintaining an precise edgey quickness (think agile backbeat and little guitar licks ). She's got an art pop thing with her singing that adds a curious dimension. Discogs tags this as experimental which I think is a stretch but it's exploratory. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Marnie-Stern-The-Chronicles-Of-Marnia/release/4378698 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8-pS1yXR8g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4P5MSa8EGKE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UdHTtdmQ0A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcbYGQgIqYk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up713oIPRyA Spotify | 7feo0bQ8I0lb4Agi1ADyUI | 2013 | Experimental | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Marnie-Stern-The-Chronicles-Of-Marnia/release/4378698 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8-pS1yXR8g | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4P5MSa8EGKE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UdHTtdmQ0A | |||
| 10522688 | Bullion | Blue Pedro | 3 | Sounds like? modern electro folk with a synth 80s nod and eurobeat Moods Coastal electro folk Thoughts Tight ep, tracks loop quick guitar or synth lines and layer electro production bits on top. Nothing revolutionary but it grabs with it's immediacy and just enough variation. I like the guitar soloing on spin2glory. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bullion-Blue-Pedro/release/10522688 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zub0p82u7Fg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RILKXsGRO8k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn2uyuQlKdM Spotify | 4kJIxli0DHXlqJbSqbO13Z | 2017 | Experimental | Folk | House | Electronic | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Bullion-Blue-Pedro/release/10522688 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zub0p82u7Fg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RILKXsGRO8k | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn2uyuQlKdM |
| 512675 | Madrugada | The Nightly Disease | 4 | Sounds like? Dark alternative rock Moods Living with regret, depression caught on tape Thoughts I've been a fan of this record for years though only really kept coming back to a few songs ( early album cuts ‘hands up I love you’ and ‘dance for me’). Revisiting the album in its entirety I can appreciate this much more as a cohesive document. Texturally I think they're strongest when things are slowed down - easy bassline and slide guitar, like a modern noir take on the blues. Sivert Hoyem's commanding voice is effective and works well with the straightforward but poetic lyrics. It can be bleak, like a lonely dusty highway at night: surrounded by darkness but just as aware light would only illuminate a vast emptiness. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Madrugada-The-Nightly-Disease/release/512675 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ne6c3LuD40 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNppGG71A-c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhSSKc-EGic https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcZ5cKyceKM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN0pENoxVBg Spotify | 4e0FBJZWUYAZSxR6PBF3Q7 | 2001 | Blues Rock | Emo | Soft Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Madrugada-The-Nightly-Disease/release/512675 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ne6c3LuD40 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNppGG71A-c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhSSKc-EGic | ||
| 7659623 | Ronnie Foster | Two-Headed Freap | 3 | Sounds like? tight keys driven funky soul jazz rock Moods Groover Thoughts Real good keys playing, dude lays it down. Like the rest of the atmosphere though wish he would breakup the super tight and quick keys playing into something chiller at times (kind of happens on let's stay together but it's a little to direct, I appreciate his loose-r approach when it feels like he's just letting the scales fly). Overall this works with the rest of the band laying down groovy soulful tight jams. Feels like a record that would translate well to fans of modern jam bands. On repeat listens I really only like the first half as the similar and quite busy playing started to get fatiguing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ronnie-Foster-Two-Headed-Freap/release/7659623 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ul08TkjnuEo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKWHH5j-iOc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWp6ngco92c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhhpMvmCTtw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_Y9MDo5Tc0 Spotify | 2raiYCmtaHV9E2RFtovGfE | 1972 | Jazz-Rock | Jazz-Funk | Fusion | Jazz | Rock | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Ronnie-Foster-Two-Headed-Freap/release/7659623 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ul08TkjnuEo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKWHH5j-iOc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWp6ngco92c |
| 12732184 | How To Dress Well | The Anteroom | 3 | Sounds like? His emotional croon with dark production borrowing from industrial techno at times, ethereal at others. Moods A pained story explored through heavy electronic textures. Thoughts If you're not familiar with his style he takes his time, drawing things out in a dramatic fashion. It's effective here but on other releases I haven't had the patience to make it through a whole album. Apparently on the Anteroom he's returned to his earlier roots so maybe I need to go back further in his catalog. The production is fantastic and totally my style with a range of influences that can be hard and dissonant. His songwriting builds towards enjoyable climaxes that fold into other builds. The whole thing flows together, telling some bizarre confessional love story. It feels like he's low in the overall mix providing an obscured feeling where his voice isn't the focal point as in most r&b. Tracks are highly accessible with some great singles in body fat and non killing. I love the dark suicidal stream of consciousness on July 13th, which is laid out over postal service dntel like production. Follows in direct contrast to the standout nonkilling just before it. More Info https://www.discogs.com/How-To-Dress-Well-The-Anteroom/release/12732184 Listen! Spotify | 0hCuM8sgQPmlvgWVvVfiE1 | 2018 | Contemporary R&B | Synth-pop | Ambient | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/How-To-Dress-Well-The-Anteroom/release/12732184 | #VALUE! | ||
| 1337741 | Paavoharju | Laulu Laakson Kukista | 3 | Sounds like? Equal parts experimental pop as it is swirling found sound Moods Uncle boonmee who can recall his past lives Thoughts haunting and strange indie alt pop sung in a language I don't understand, southeast Asia maybe? Good Western pop sensibilities with a spooky distant lofi vibe going on. Works and the foreign tongue makes this feel like a trip.. Vaguely experimental at times though these are clearly pop lovers.. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Paavoharju-Laulu-Laakson-Kukista/release/1337741 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oVyZxvUlPc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zG2dV_RjPc Spotify | 4EJN050pHG6BbNu4YS7QOK | 2008 | Modern Classical | Folk | Experimental | Electronic | Rock | Folk | https://www.discogs.com/Paavoharju-Laulu-Laakson-Kukista/release/1337741 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oVyZxvUlPc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zG2dV_RjPc | |
| 8642522 | Nite Jewel | Liquid Cool | 3 | Sounds like? synth pop with a fragility Moods Kissing the screen Thoughts I'm not sure why I decided to revisit this after a few years (twin peaks and a track appearing on playlist maybe reignited an interest?). I like it more and find it's aging well. Songwriting is generally straightforward but memorable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Nite-Jewel-Liquid-Cool/release/8642522 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uISk3sXmSeg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owGlPrQ7FwE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl6iyzO0nxE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXLGNsc6PUE Spotify | 2016 | Dance-pop | Leftfield | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Nite-Jewel-Liquid-Cool/release/8642522 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uISk3sXmSeg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owGlPrQ7FwE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl6iyzO0nxE | ||
| 823311 | Eddie Henderson | Heritage | 4 | Sounds like? Jazz rock fusion Moods Jamming: as if the head hunters were playing under miles direction during his electric period. Thoughts Great fusion. Starts out groove focused and adds dark space as the album goes on. The later tracks remind me an awful lot of miles fusion, not a lot of other records are able to capture that sound. Patrice rushen is on keys, awesome! I always appreciated her solo work but I've gained a new respect here. She wrote one of the better tracks Kudu. I like the tight rhythm work too, Dr. mganga is a prime example of this. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Eddie-Henderson-Heritage/release/823311 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaStlmO_AbQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qb3yT74C1cE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psxzgnUiWT4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJzwXA0N6fk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6JPtqhR770 Spotify | 2BtLI4D4seuSwWDaAu8L9z | 1976 | Fusion | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Eddie-Henderson-Heritage/release/823311 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaStlmO_AbQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qb3yT74C1cE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psxzgnUiWT4 | |||
| 396418 | Brazilian Girls | Brazilian Girls | 4 | Sounds like? Worldly downtempo pop Moods Comedown classic Thoughts An album I've gotten a lot of enjoyment from over the years. Its effective hybrid music incorporating from a variety of worldly styles (reggae, samba, etc) to add to it's core downtempo electronic base. The changes keep things fun and interesting, doing a lot well and staying true to what makes those genres great. Nothing very deep but all enjoyable. It inspires a wandering worldly feeling and definitely seems as if they've had a share of coming down from heavy nights. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Brazilian-Girls-Brazilian-Girls/release/396418 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISFAPOoefCU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aVUB0nIONo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6TJULYLRBA Spotify | 2GqHFaFJmhDgHGQQQcWqRE | 2005 | Leftfield | Dub | Latin | Electronic | Latin | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Brazilian-Girls-Brazilian-Girls/release/396418 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISFAPOoefCU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aVUB0nIONo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6TJULYLRBA |
| 3705572 | Old 97's | Fight Songs | 2 | Sounds like? Pop Alt folk country, like wilcos most straightforward pop from their earlier albums Moods Sounds like it'd play well in a barn Thoughts Not a bad record by any means just not really my style. Lacks the memorable weirdness of my favorite alt pop country act, Wilco. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Old-97s-Fight-Songs/release/3705572 Listen! Spotify | 0wsRyM7gcmbN5l0RiOArGc | 1999 | Country Rock | Rock | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Old-97s-Fight-Songs/release/3705572 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 3462646 | Mariel Ito | Decryptor EP | 2 | Sounds like? Tech House Moods Inspires dark small club vibe Thoughts I wanted to like this more than I did. I like tech house overall just never engaged me in any real way More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mariel-Ito-Decryptor-EP/release/3462646 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UumU8lRQZqI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6ubSh72PuA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_v79ra_VEg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYojVN5CGYY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOqBIhbCIZ0 Spotify | 4IJeIWFOUtBbfVh5NkI43T | 2006 | Techno | Electro | Tech House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Mariel-Ito-Decryptor-EP/release/3462646 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UumU8lRQZqI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6ubSh72PuA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_v79ra_VEg | ||
| 7121692 | Corrina Repp | The Pattern Of Electricity | 3 | Sounds like? folk inspired americana ( arcade fire) pop Moods Reflective moments that conjure early arcade fire Thoughts She gives nod to modern pop influences in her own way with well done organic instrumentation and dramatic touches that remind me of a slimmed down early arcade fire. On revisits I was more appreciative of the electronic flourishes in the productions that I didn't hear initially. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Corrina-Repp-The-Pattern-Of-Electricity/release/7121692 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HWFqp7KsZM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz5C4wNVKtc Spotify | 60TBB2lIib4QmjKE8PYNgF | 2015 | #VALUE! | Pop | Folk | World | https://www.discogs.com/Corrina-Repp-The-Pattern-Of-Electricity/release/7121692 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HWFqp7KsZM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz5C4wNVKtc | |||
| 372264 | Fiona Apple | Tidal | 4 | Sounds like? Intense piano driven pop rock Moods Passionate Thoughts Tracks ranges from good to great. She's bursting with emotion and it's hard not to feel something from these songs. There's an overall richness to her songs and productions that's very seductive and appealing. Might be the emphasis from the piano or use of strings. Her voice too: feminine but deep and satisfying like red wine on a cold night. Criminal is a great track but it other places I found myself wanting more in lyrical content. Carion is a perfect closer, a track about her leaving a lover and instructing them not to look for her. Just like that the passionate night is over. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Fiona-Apple-Tidal/release/372264 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnXjISlKLuE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiuk0z8dzXo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFOzayDpWoI Spotify | 5gVBXH8MT6zfdRkjp7qT18 | 1996 | Soft Rock | Pop Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Fiona-Apple-Tidal/release/372264 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnXjISlKLuE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiuk0z8dzXo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFOzayDpWoI | |||
| 12358971 | Travis Scott | Astroworld | 3 | Sounds like? Travis Scott's distinct brand of trap featuring a cast of guest appearances Moods Bumped up loud and riding around Thoughts Enjoyable but the immediate appeal I found in initial listens is starting to wane (though that's not a comment on Travis Scott, trap rap like this feels very flavor of the moment). I've liked Travis Scott's singles in the past and I'm impressed by the coherent vision he's executing here. Lyrically he portrays a disconnected drug dude, thing a poppy portrayal of the southern chopped and screwed vibe. It's partnered well with the dark boomy sound of his production. I like the psychedelic moments, including a production credit from Tame Impala. It's a distinct approach in hip hop production and I hope others try to do more in that vein as I've seen the nu-psychedelic world converging with rap for a few years. Sicko Mode was a great banger in the winter but it's played out now. Worth a listen for trap fans. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Travis-Scott-Astroworld/release/12358971 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ONRf7h3Mdk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLkQA7iLNUk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LegcNVM_nM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqvCptqhHfs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SLD1ZQZ_4Y Spotify | 41GuZcammIkupMPKH2OJ6I | 2018 | Trap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Travis-Scott-Astroworld/release/12358971 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ONRf7h3Mdk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLkQA7iLNUk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LegcNVM_nM | ||||
| 807151 | The Durutti Column | The Return Of The Durutti Column | 3 | Sounds like? electric guitar and bass over a very basic midi drum machine Moods A sunny day noodle with friends Thoughts Plays like a personal jam amongst friends. There are shapes of songs here and lots of melodic lines to grip on to which keeps it somewhat engaging. I like the basic drum machine, it's like an incompetent robot drummer. Adds this synthesized layer to ‘Katherine’ that adds so basic it stands as a nice supplement to the pleasant, wistful reverb driven guitar playing. This came out in 1979 and I can see it being hugely influential then as the electric guitar was still finding itself. Listening to it almost 40 years later it holds up well. I think there's a whole scene of bedroom musicians and chillwave artists striving to create the same thing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Durutti-Column-The-Return-Of-The-Durutti-Column/release/807151 Listen! Spotify | 6ANCHHVpcvjCqQFUDUvDOW | 1980 | Avantgarde | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Durutti-Column-The-Return-Of-The-Durutti-Column/release/807151 | #REF! | |||||
| 6127488 | Thom Yorke | Tomorrow's Modern Boxes | 3 | Sounds like? yorkes spare and ethereal electro with a bit of techno Moods It's as if I'm a passenger in my own life Thoughts An accessible entry to Thom Yorke's Solo work. Sparse production wise but he's developing further, it's as if this has the kid a + amnesiac textures with the directnews of hail to the thief. The hip techno flair on early tracks give this an approachability to those outside of the Radiohead fanboy circuit. Drifts further towards the end but a good record overall. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Thom-Yorke-Tomorrows-Modern-Boxes/release/6127488 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqbFFVOul50 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZe6mUnZWzs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8G-8-xaaabE Spotify | 2014 | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Thom-Yorke-Tomorrows-Modern-Boxes/release/6127488 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqbFFVOul50 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZe6mUnZWzs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8G-8-xaaabE | |||||
| 3650273 | Atlas Sound | Parallax | 4 | Sounds like? artsy adult contemporary indie pop Moods A dark kind of love Thoughts Heartfelt and engaging. The first half is an excellent set of mature chilled-out indie rock. Cox is an excellent lyricist, a natural poet without pretense. His vocal range is limited but he works it well here, changing styles as needed but with a certain drifting casualness. Has a slight twinge of panda bear like psychedelica. Things drag toward the end, track times get longer and I find it a bit exhausting. Te amo is a magnificent track. This album is as good as any great indie album I've heard in the past 10 years. Benefiting from Bradford Cox's steadfast vision rather than a flurry of ideas from a young band. Recommended. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Atlas-Sound-Parallax/release/3650273 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iVRuAUKrds https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rY5Uf4E0e4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8YrrkDvZ-8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdBaAGyeKvE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgIGChuG8Og Spotify | 2011 | Psychedelic Rock | Indie Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Atlas-Sound-Parallax/release/3650273 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iVRuAUKrds | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rY5Uf4E0e4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8YrrkDvZ-8 | |||
| 11876628 | Elysia Crampton | Elysia Crampton | 3 | Sounds like? Experimental electro with a Spanish backbeat Moods Kinda crazy Thoughts A maddening listen at times: leveraging angular guitars, distortion and repetition to build intensity. Earlier more melodic tracks like ‘oscollo’ will get more future play from me but interesting overall. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Elysia-Crampton-Elysia-Crampton/release/11876628 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlYom-LzBmo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SxWmN2GkAI Spotify | 0neKjra2VWrALCsC7SDeyt | 2018 | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Elysia-Crampton-Elysia-Crampton/release/11876628 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlYom-LzBmo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SxWmN2GkAI | |||||
| 1567084 | Oliver Nelson | The Blues And The Abstract Truth | 3 | Sounds like? Post-bop Moods Cooking with oli Thoughts Damn fine post-bop from damn fine players. Album opener 'Stolen Moments' is a fantastic track, Yearnin is another good one. Bill Evans is on this but his solos feel a little subdued. However the brass features some fine playing from both Hubbard and Dolphy. The whole thing jives together nicely, recommended for post-bop fans. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Oliver-Nelson-The-Blues-And-The-Abstract-Truth/release/1567084 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44DfWE0gatQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlkkQiZ-gV4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2jqUl27ogY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tNZ6AG0xWc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8yiZvdXJlk Spotify | 7BSQKjtu7YjBkTuhBK2tIJ | 2007 | Post Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Oliver-Nelson-The-Blues-And-The-Abstract-Truth/release/1567084 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44DfWE0gatQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlkkQiZ-gV4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2jqUl27ogY | ||||
| 1262915 | The Get Up Kids | Something To Write Home About | 4 | Sounds like? Emo pop rock Moods A melodic ode to coming of age relationships. Thoughts I've listened to this album a lot, it's impossible to talk about objectively. It doesn't sound as good or profound as it did 20 years ago but I think I'm the one that's changed. Addressing its faults I'd point to overly wordy lyrics and bland instrumentation. However the melodies and just straightforward memorability of these songs is hard to deny. The basic Moog lines add just the right amount of emotional highlight. I think it does stand the test of time rather than just serving as a nostalgic memento of emos golden age. Is it for everyone? Definitely not but I'm sure this and the rest of the get up kids early catalog could find some modern fans. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Get-Up-Kids-Something-To-Write-Home-About/release/1262915 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgqxFcVD89M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-nuYrZE94A Spotify | 3S0PabpZF2USPmwK8lIRZ8 | 1999 | Emo | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Get-Up-Kids-Something-To-Write-Home-About/release/1262915 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgqxFcVD89M | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-nuYrZE94A | ||||
| 3020902 | Aretha Franklin | Spirit In The Dark | 5 | Sounds like? soul / r&b Moods Queen of soul sings southern gold Thoughts Aretha is such a focused and powerful singer that I've had trouble finding albums of hers I can sit and enjoy; recognizing her ability but not wanting to listen to a full LP of gospel or soul. Here she feels at her most personal, leaning heavily into R&B with a southern flair from the strong muscle shoals backing band. The result is wonderful and presents her in a very accessible format for rock fans. While she still sings with gospel flair at times (pullin ends with a particularly feverous higher calling) it's done so in a way that integrates smoothly with the r&b sound. There's a few weaker tracks towards the end but the overall sound of this record, pairing the queen of soul with an almost raw blues band, makes this one not to miss. For further reading around her personal history and troubles going into this are documented well in the Pitchfork review (https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/aretha-franklin-spirit-in-the-dark/). More Info https://www.discogs.com/Aretha-Franklin-Spirit-In-The-Dark/release/3020902 Listen! Spotify | 1s3FSienS5KcpWckmq4NHO | 1970 | Soul | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Aretha-Franklin-Spirit-In-The-Dark/release/3020902 | #VALUE! | ||||||
| 292056 | Takashi Wada | Meguro | 2 | Sounds like? Ambient influenced electro with an ethereal vibe and pleasant instrumentation (percussive, acoustic guitar, keys) Moods A pleasant feeling provoked by a place I've only imagined Thoughts Floats around with an OK pleasantness on the first couple of tracks. Breaks into a rhythmic part on 28° C that really appeals. Other tracks hit all the right notes but I'd compare this to drinking Japanese whiskey: I want something more than perfect. Didn't really do it for me. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Takashi-Wada-Meguro/release/292056 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjCVDE8eb5c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4oUw8lpMtg Spotify | 2004 | Abstract | Downtempo | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Takashi-Wada-Meguro/release/292056 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjCVDE8eb5c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4oUw8lpMtg | ||||
| 7525224 | Christian Scott | Stretch Music | 4 | Sounds like? Rhythmic contemporary jazz Moods Fresh Jazz Thoughts Surprised I'm just learning about this dude cause he's right up my alley. This album features contemporary compositions rooted in post bop, incorporating elements of hip hop and rock seamlessly. Other reviews applaud the drumming but I think the varied but always strong songwriting is the real standout: ‘twin’ a rhythmic post bop thing, ‘perspectives’ a quiet piece made engaging by a shimmering layer of keys is the perfect lead into the rocking ‘west of the west’ where rocking electric guitar cuts right through the calm. The later half of the album mellows into more traditional post bop carried by strong playing. I wasn't left with much memory of his trumpet playing but I think that's a good thing as he thrives in versatility. Utilizing tasteful effects when appropriate or a bit of technical flexing in others. His solos are never imposing like certain bandleaders. It's great and I'm looking forward to checking more out from him. In 2015 I was consumed by kamasi, this is equally as good as the epic. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Christian-Scott-aTunde-Adjuah-Introducing-Elena-Pinderhughes-Stretch-Music/release/7525224 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1JnHCqqu64 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JiGfTWngK54 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktU_X7CDaBM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_byDM5lpDlA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8FLvHFUbTY Spotify | 7nmjMOOQlDxZWfKGDRy9Hb | 2015 | #VALUE! | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Christian-Scott-aTunde-Adjuah-Introducing-Elena-Pinderhughes-Stretch-Music/release/7525224 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1JnHCqqu64 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JiGfTWngK54 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktU_X7CDaBM | ||||
| 1597082 | Lee Morgan | Search For The New Land | 4 | Sounds like? real good hardbop Moods Peak creativity Thoughts here's what allmusic said about the session: "the musicians are in particularly creative form on the fresh material, and they stretch the boundaries of hard bop (the modern mainstream jazz of the period). The result is a consistently stimulating set that rewards repeated listenings." Stray observation: I've never thought of hard bop as a ‘new thing’ but it was not so long ago. Anyways, focusing on the title track there is definitely a strong creative current that all inventive jazz strives for. Clocking in at roughly 15 minutes it encompasses just under half the album. It has this stop and go kind of momentum with the refrain opening into each of the solos. Reminds me of in a silent way where the song unfolds in these wave type parts, layering on top of each other. The rest of the outing is pretty good hard bop but never captures that same high. Still the stellar ensemble ensures hard bop fans will leave pleased. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-Search-For-The-New-Land/release/1597082 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDfkkRa1VA8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2w909-pj3A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73rT4Gsh7nU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUNEFvQTAck https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oX73N9-hUeU Spotify | 6NmykD5FJftiDWqjWlwKfr | 1966 | Hard Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-Search-For-The-New-Land/release/1597082 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDfkkRa1VA8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2w909-pj3A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73rT4Gsh7nU | ||||
| 7327553 | Florian Kupfer | I Feel You | 3 | Sounds like? deep lofi house Moods Rough LES basement electro Thoughts Overall I like the general sound here more than the individual songs. I feel these would work best in mixes, appearing as moments in some type of raw performance setting. All tracks utilize this slight distortion as if the drum pad got a small spill of beer on it and the effects are just slightly warped; things are coming through but something is slightly off. It's rough not so much in tone like industrial productions but in polish as if he's making this live; letting the drum machine go on for too long alone on lemming for instance. It's ultimately effective at building the tension through an uncertainty as it he figuring out how these tracks are going to work. Really dig the first track with a moody mournful vocal that stood out with that distorted bass thump. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Florian-Kupfer-I-Feel-You/release/7327553 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0LVImlFDyg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNNVR4Q3I2I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrfMHgPWymI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JdqOXhHd3I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1OdwGdo4Jk Spotify | 2015 | House | Techno | Acid House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Florian-Kupfer-I-Feel-You/release/7327553 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0LVImlFDyg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNNVR4Q3I2I | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrfMHgPWymI | |||
| 8170173 | Magik Markers | Boss | 3 | Sounds like? Desert spooky kind of spoken word folk with tense instrumentation Moods Enlightenment Thoughts Enjoyable, reminds me of Sonic youth a bit. The aggressiveness and slight angularity is something I probably would've liked when I was younger but not something I'm as attracted to now, definitely reaching for chiller songs overall. I like her spoken word lyrics. She's got a kind of all knowing confidence that works really well, it's hard to imagine these songs succeeding without her. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Magik-Markers-Boss/release/8170173 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwmUKg5Sp3Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUu60J19xpU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA2cV-s8W84 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrYS9FW73EA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmYEZJ9r8VI Spotify | 7MwZABljjwFM2s6G9xhlNJ | 2007 | Alternative Rock | Noise | Avantgarde | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Magik-Markers-Boss/release/8170173 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwmUKg5Sp3Q | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUu60J19xpU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA2cV-s8W84 | |
| 3455552 | Portico Quartet | Portico Quartet | 3 | Sounds like? modern classic quartet with rock and jazz songwriting structures Moods Modern beauty Thoughts A true hybrid of genres incorporating everything from rock and electronic to jazz and classical. I'd say you're most familiar approaching this as a jazz album with classical influences. It's difficult for musicians to get that type of combination right but they pull it off in a patient way with effective touches of electronics and overall 'pretty' and 'contemplative' moments. It's richness would lend well to a live setting an I'd be really interested in seeing these guys live. 'Laker Boo' shifts out of the patient structure into something more aggressive and forward. I like the ideas here but I'm not sure how much I'll revisit this album. I'm curious to see how they evolve, they have the potential for something truly great. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Portico-Quartet-Portico-Quartet/release/3455552 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpNXM-114WU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQH0GPL33uc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVLveOhrvG8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnxZEwoMA_k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhoZqMVFRAs Spotify | 019texP50KanUPgv0AqNob | 2012 | Contemporary Jazz | Ambient | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Portico-Quartet-Portico-Quartet/release/3455552 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpNXM-114WU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQH0GPL33uc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVLveOhrvG8 | ||
| 5631195 | The Nels Cline Singers | Macroscope | 4 | Sounds like? modern jazz with rock and free jazz ethos Moods Accessible experimental jazz for guitar shredders Thoughts Lots of guitar here. Earlier tracks are loaded with face-melting jazz guitar solos, with Cline coming out swinging; enlivened by percussive pushes. Middle tracks like 'red before orange' showcase his sweet tone. Later tracks break away from structure, becoming more textural with bits of percussion and electronics. Really like the track 'seven zed heaven' which starts off with a swinging thing that turns into a tension building piece (Cyro's on this! Awesome weird percussive textures for this not familiar (see Hairy Mother intro). Great album that rewards repeat listens. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Nels-Cline-Singers-Macroscope/release/5631195 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoVY6M8fTXc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzQCQbso-dY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ixk6zST2nM0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZXAIbKNA0o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF2PaUA79ao Spotify | 50fns9PIYEsVytW5LvUntm | 2014 | Experimental | Contemporary Jazz | Free Jazz | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Nels-Cline-Singers-Macroscope/release/5631195 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoVY6M8fTXc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzQCQbso-dY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ixk6zST2nM0 | |
| 7853044 | James Ferraro | Far Side Virtual | 4 | Sounds like? vaporwave (new age synth and computer Muzak with a cynical twist) Moods A vaporwave classic, I'd like to logout now please Thoughts I'm not a vaporware historian but I appreciate the genre and it's cultural critique: taking the soothing elements of Muzak and warping them into this anxious soundtrack. This is a definitive vaporwave album and representative example of the genres aim. With just the right amount of maddening cheese, it doesn't feel like it's deliberate satire (well maybe on wifi sushi which is almost laugh out loud funny). He really captures the excitement that once existed about globalization's limitless possibility unlocked by the consumer. In hindsight we can see growth in corporate culture has just led to disappointment and further inequality, revealing an entirely new interpretation of this music. As art I applaud it, its effective and immediate. To sit and listen to this as you would regular pop? I'm not sure it has that appeal. More Info https://www.discogs.com/James-Ferraro-Far-Side-Virtual/release/7853044 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9ndKlm-G3s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRFn97NyURM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNhP6aoP6XY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w82omu5nrkk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIvR9rqae7Q Spotify | 6ikRgitLXuaNJ75YY3zGUc | 2011 | Leftfield | Abstract | Parody | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/James-Ferraro-Far-Side-Virtual/release/7853044 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9ndKlm-G3s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRFn97NyURM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNhP6aoP6XY | |
| 1225270 | Centro-Matic | Love You Just The Same | 2 | Sounds like? alt bar rock Americana Moods Articulate bar-fly Thoughts pretty good with solid songwriting, I just find myself having less interest in traditional rock. I can't articulate a specific reason for why I don't like this record, it just plays like a boring drag and I wasn't a less to get through a second listen. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Centro-Matic-Love-You-Just-The-Same/release/1225270 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DS_20QTm3Tw Spotify | 1LUcaAX6IH0wpiVK909zx5 | 2003 | Lo-Fi | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Centro-Matic-Love-You-Just-The-Same/release/1225270 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DS_20QTm3Tw | |||||
| 10988544 | Machine Woman | When Lobster Comes Home | 2 | Sounds like? semi abrasive left field electro Moods "Camile from ohm makes me feel loved" is good, rest not so much Thoughts Not much to tracks 2 and 3, nothing to em. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Machine-Woman-When-Lobster-Comes-Home/release/10988544 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfw1JXt8dTI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnK3iISJv8U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3BpyV6aQD4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fwNn69JHT8 Spotify | 2ul5XhxPveNrYHJ0dNxQfo | 2017 | Techno | Tech House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Machine-Woman-When-Lobster-Comes-Home/release/10988544 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfw1JXt8dTI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnK3iISJv8U | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3BpyV6aQD4 | |||
| 9230946 | iZem | Hafa | 3 | Sounds like? Danceable global chilled out pop Moods A refreshing sun shower Thoughts Evidently this is the project of an electro producer though it doesn't feel like an electro record. The lead-off track is a jazzy pop thing I enjoy, not sure what language she's singing but it fits with the basic sax to set the exotic tone. 'Quiver' works with a detached feeling like Drake's music or certain portishead. The spacey 'kulala' is another standout, a swelling keys line and ping pong balls swirl around a peaceful vocal line. This sits right on the border of the worldly music craze that's taken over pop production but iZem is on the interesting side, exploring the sound with organic instrumentation. It's as if this is an afro focused record that's been influenced by Drake, not vice versa. Vocalists aren't very distinct but I enjoy them, at least the language is varied. He's at his best with vocalists, not always an easy thing to do as a producer. Meditative, transporting, fresh and enjoyable; recommended. More Info https://www.discogs.com/iZem-Hafa-/release/9230946 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZrmeKnof44 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5v41wqHZYc Spotify | 6rZ1s8wfQHwrAD1Nd74vYW | 2016 | Downtempo | Deep House | Afrobeat | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Folk | https://www.discogs.com/iZem-Hafa-/release/9230946 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZrmeKnof44 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5v41wqHZYc | |
| 6447917 | Snarky Puppy | Bring Us The Bright | 3 | Sounds like? Modern fusion big band Moods Compositional perfection Thoughts They are almost like modern day big band featuring a big ensemble playing music in an orchestrated fashion. It's fusion in the sense that they draw from so many influences (rock, funk, jam bands, classical) while still staying true to jazz. My only fault is also the biggest compliment: their compositions are fantastic but can have the rehearsed stuffiness at times; missing the loose rawness of jazz I'm typically drawn to. They are so tight but I prefer their live studio albums as it adds that looseness. As for individual tracks: 'Celebrity' is a great track, love the albums Dre g-funk from the keys line to the wompy bass effects. Has a nice flow, 'strawman's' mellow beginning is a good example of this, drawing from jambands with quick guitar work and Herbie funky keys. '34 klezma' begins with a yiddish rhythm and rich strings and piano, it's decadent in a classical sense. Can't go wrong with a snarky puppy release More Info https://www.discogs.com/Snarky-Puppy-Bring-Us-The-Bright/release/6447917 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGMYxIGIzmM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pZdwTTZuOc Spotify | 6SLn4qJuDgRTXkX6lo5eTQ | 2008 | #VALUE! | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Snarky-Puppy-Bring-Us-The-Bright/release/6447917 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGMYxIGIzmM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pZdwTTZuOc | ||||
| 8891765 | Szun Waves | At Sacred Walls | 3 | Sounds like? post rock jazz Moods Stoned Thoughts Jazz I guess but reminds me a lot of post rock in it's slow building songs. Rhythms, electronics and sax textures gradually break down as the album wears on. Like Abbott is a member which explains the solid electronics. Really like the meditative hum on the title track. Appeals with it's stoner vibe. Drumlines are off time and it noodles a bit. If you approach this as a post rock ambient record it's solid, jazz not so much. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Szun-Waves-At-Sacred-Walls/release/8891765 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ze2RBJWVS4E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJw3pXxzgsk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThoLIEgfCPc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTvYn5EgoaU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9enveKtvOL8 Spotify | 7gDtMFuI0ms2bW7AYpdIt8 | 2016 | Ambient | Avant-garde Jazz | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Szun-Waves-At-Sacred-Walls/release/8891765 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ze2RBJWVS4E | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJw3pXxzgsk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThoLIEgfCPc | ||
| 8813748 | BJ The Chicago Kid | In My Mind | 2 | Sounds like? Modern pop rap Moods Gospel rap Thoughts I like tracks and parts but overall too churchy for me. Production is good and Chance has a good verse on one track but not enough. More Info https://www.discogs.com/BJ-The-Chicago-Kid-In-My-Mind/release/8813748 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEh7dnVxV84 Spotify | 15iSR05cslUeYgf2kuWDhu | 2016 | RnB/Swing | Contemporary R&B | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/BJ-The-Chicago-Kid-In-My-Mind/release/8813748 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEh7dnVxV84 | ||||
| 8020953 | Flying Saucer Attack | Flying Saucer Attack | 3 | Sounds like? distorted and noisy as shit rock Moods WALL of sound Thoughts Almost feels like a precise mbv. Tracks playing in waves with swells of super noisy guitar during things like the chorus. He sings quiet and calm, an interesting juxtaposition to everything swirling around him. It's effective and there's something magical at play on tracks like 'wish'. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Flying-Saucer-Attack-Flying-Saucer-Attack/release/8020953 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hB2C-cw_bc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAWRyEbQfXg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qa2E-rRT4JE Spotify | 19EG2Pg9TBTTmXsAYmrvsc | 1994 | Experimental | Ambient | Space Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Flying-Saucer-Attack-Flying-Saucer-Attack/release/8020953 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hB2C-cw_bc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAWRyEbQfXg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qa2E-rRT4JE | ||
| 8185731 | Bullion | Loop The Loop | 3 | Sounds like? Billed as leftfield, it reminds me of quasi-electro folk acts like panda bear Moods Coastal electro Thoughts has a reverb beach boys / panda bear thing going on - not quite organic but welcome lines like quick bongo loops on tracks like self catering. Good stuff. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bullion-Loop-The-Loop/release/8185731 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTdpjoUNkdM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJfIjTUdhvM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Nc5ZsZzMVI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3eyXhdLhGs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWB6OPR6Xko Spotify | 0POEfK1EHkfxrGbJtIBZOJ | 2016 | Leftfield | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Bullion-Loop-The-Loop/release/8185731 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTdpjoUNkdM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJfIjTUdhvM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Nc5ZsZzMVI | |||
| 198661 | Boxhead Ensemble | Quartets | 2 | Sounds like? effect-laden modern classical Moods Cerebral Thoughts I can't tell if it's because I listened to this with ear buds or if it's recorded in a certain way but it felt very much 'in my head'. These tracks have space and build tension at times as well as create feelings of intimacy. Reminds me of an indie version of the Kronos quartet. On second listen I was especially bored, just OK. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Boxhead-Ensemble-Quartets/release/198661 Listen! Spotify | 6Rt4T2a0qmwTusv9JWfmoE | 2003 | Abstract | Avantgarde | Jazz | Classical | Folk | https://www.discogs.com/Boxhead-Ensemble-Quartets/release/198661 | #VALUE! | |||
| 8395925 | Superpitcher | So Far So Super | 2 | Sounds like? German minimal house Moods a retrospective of superpitchers career Thoughts hard to concisely categorize how a career spanning document sounds but it's definitely German minimal house, certain darkness' with a bit of spoken word whimsy. I wasn't crazy about the first half or so. Some OK moments. Lots of lyrics but none of it particularly good. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Superpitcher-So-Far-So-Super/release/8395925 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faHxF-bD-N8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM5coZk_lkE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9n7QLJvWZg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPtyyMkxMRM Spotify | 0Wsu34Uly2hBZMB8fKfOdC | 2016 | Techno | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Superpitcher-So-Far-So-Super/release/8395925 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faHxF-bD-N8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM5coZk_lkE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9n7QLJvWZg | |||
| 12543607 | Louis Cole | Time | 3 | Sounds like? Quick bedroom synth jazz funk pop Moods the white thundercat of synths Thoughts He's got a distinct sound of synth poppy synth funk. It's quick like those little soulful flourishes a keys player might lay in but all the time. It's jazzy and technical, good, but songwriting can get tiring. I like the lyrical themes, digital insecurities around sex and relationships; timeless but modern. I have fond memories of knower shows and wish Louis the best luck as a proficient backbone of brainfeeder. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Louis-Cole-Time/release/12543607 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8Sjam1hnrA Spotify | 0WbNyHNpkxpqscNWiiEhZS | 2018 | Electro | Dark Ambient | Downtempo | Electronic | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Louis-Cole-Time/release/12543607 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8Sjam1hnrA | ||
| 579852 | Lee Morgan | The Sidewinder | 2 | Sounds like? Hard bop Moods Downtown Thoughts I'm torn on this, not really my thing but it's so good for what it is. I especially love Henderson's solos, feels like he's in prime form. However I'm just not sure I'd put this on again, the title track made it onto a playlist but that's about as far as I'd go to revisit. I need to stop listening to hard bop. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-The-Sidewinder/release/579852 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJi03NqXfk8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12srcPirMeM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNK8E7Mwwk0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KP5bkHfRYVU Spotify | 3ckt1jRTh6Q08fUvEePI7B | 1964 | Hard Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Lee-Morgan-The-Sidewinder/release/579852 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJi03NqXfk8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12srcPirMeM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNK8E7Mwwk0 | ||||
| 12243069 | Deafheaven | Ordinary Corrupt Human Love | 3 | Sounds like? epic indie metal post rock Moods Cinematic Thoughts I wonder what key this is in because it immediately inspires a grandiose feeling. Post rock elements for sure as this is exploratory and .. (wistful? In awe? Can't find the word) gets 'heavy' at times but really just borrows from metal with the lyrics otherwise I wouldn't consider it heavy at all. Telling that this is what classifies as metal now. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Deafheaven-Ordinary-Corrupt-Human-Love/release/12243069 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITgslYJhfx0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5eQuhBfDE0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yzGzQ8pu8E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU8g0XNyHRw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPntpS9A-lY Spotify | 2iA7rzpQsOfAPkfH4Ekp7f | 2018 | Heavy Metal | Black Metal | Shoegaze | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Deafheaven-Ordinary-Corrupt-Human-Love/release/12243069 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITgslYJhfx0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5eQuhBfDE0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yzGzQ8pu8E | ||
| 4536212 | Kids These Days | Traphouse Rock | 2 | Sounds like? Rap with a rock band Moods The energy of a live show with the polish of the studio Thoughts I really like some of these productions, distinct in their use of instrumentation. The album didn't really resonate with me. Almost felt like canned aggression, too polished as a studio album. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kids-These-Days-Traphouse-Rock/release/4536212 Listen! Spotify | 2012 | Fusion | Hip Hop | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Kids-These-Days-Traphouse-Rock/release/4536212 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 13372422 | The Japanese House | Good At Falling | 3 | Sounds like? Synth pop rock Moods Some incredibly catchy and well crafted pop music. Thoughts Another BJ Burton jammer, dude is on a seriously good streak at creating memorable pop. After many repeated listens the album is top heavy with good singles like 'maybe you're the reason' and 'you seemed so happy', the later borrows from jangly 80s pop in a good way. Production overall borrows from that big synthetic 80s drum sound. Amber Bain's voice, a lovely indie (re: imperfect) front girl, is produced in a way that could carry ships across seas; full and extending. The album takes a deliberately quieter and personal midsection. Amber lazily singing lines like "everybody hates me" in true millennial fashion is juxtaposed with Giorgio moroder like synth lines. Production gets decidedly more basic as the album unfolds with the final two tracks really just leaving her singing some slow songs. It's not my favorite but they are genuine and crafted with love. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Japanese-House-Good-At-Falling/release/13372422 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEzYD4ZielY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J88UF4HxHhw Spotify | 3Pa8W1UOD018R21VgOPTYZ | 2019 | Indie Pop | Synth-pop | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/The-Japanese-House-Good-At-Falling/release/13372422 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEzYD4ZielY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J88UF4HxHhw | |||
| 7696009 | Mano Le Tough | Trails | 3 | Sounds like? Hip electro Moods Electro for cool haircut bros Thoughtsp Discogs calls this deep house, if it is it's a very pop friendly version of that if it is; call it radio friendly deep house. His production is top notch with a professional polish and rich sound. Tracks are often built around generic house beat but then he'll add production flourishes with borrowed acid synths and bass lines with a slight leftfield stutter. Songs run a little long and he takes his time opening them up, truthfully it feels at odds with the accessible vibe he's putting on. 'Trails' for instance has a strong celebratory feeling but it lingers too long at 6 minutes and it wants by the end. Lyrically its weak. Feels forced like he's reaching for profound but it's lacking; I'd prefer a more personal approach. Overall more bad than good with an impressive amount of consistency. I'm not sure this will be the sort of thing I continue to come back but we'll see. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mano-Le-Tough-Trails/release/7696009 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFFMB89K5yI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIS4Q4TwZG0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRgUoyqrlkw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX9EmXkjRqA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOAAjV0GfCQ Spotify | 3dsVDbduVio6OBL1hxgpXM | 2015 | Ambient | Deep House | Downtempo | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Mano-Le-Tough-Trails/release/7696009 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFFMB89K5yI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIS4Q4TwZG0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRgUoyqrlkw | ||
| 6837125 | Junior Walker & The All Stars | Shotgun | 5 | Sounds like? scorching sax driven r&b Moods Motown at its most explosive Thoughts All hits on this LP of raw sax driven r&b. Walker's scorching solos screech out the sax, as if he can barely contain his sax playing. The result is an explosive swinging energy on every track. The recording has an appealing grit that likely results from the studio. It sounds it's age but doesn't feel dated. Songwriting is kind of monotone but with energy this good it's hard to imagine the history of popular music without Jr. Walker. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Jr-Walker-And-The-All-Stars-Shotgun/release/6837125 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CV27DtGUhnc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI7CtxlisCk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyGHXD3WQ-I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrDVZVBekcg Spotify | 4aDsONCBMpZ6AAjZctYEYS | 1965 | Rhythm & Blues | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Jr-Walker-And-The-All-Stars-Shotgun/release/6837125 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CV27DtGUhnc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI7CtxlisCk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyGHXD3WQ-I | ||||
| 379923 | The Cure | The Head On The Door | 3 | Sounds like? 80s alt rock with a bit of jangle pop Moods A radio friendly cure record Thoughts a mediocre cure album with some standouts like 'six different ways' and 'close to me'. It's still the cure so even mediocre is great, there's something so timeless about their jangliness. Here there is a wistful love of life and exploring the world. Robert Smith has a knack for creating enjoyable pop. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Cure-The-Head-On-The-Door/release/379923 Listen! Spotify | 6HhpmJekzDCRu2K64ZbWqw | 1985 | Alternative Rock | New Wave | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Cure-The-Head-On-The-Door/release/379923 | #REF! | ||||
| 12647360 | Blood Orange | Negro Swan | 2 | Sounds like? Modern day emo synth pop with flourishes of hip hop Moods Comfortable with who you really are Thoughts Dev hynes feels fully exposed on negro swan and I'm not sure I like it. I love his songwriting (see my other reviews of his records) but the quiet style he portrays here lacks his great pop songwriting I've come to expect. I feel like a jerk writing this, he's getting more personal and yet I like it less? The production is great. His basic synth thing has just the right amount of modern dark hip hop production to it. I like the overall message (be yourself) and his inclusion of the recurring narrator works well. Just won't be the album of his that I come back to More Info https://www.discogs.com/Blood-Orange-Negro-Swan/release/12647360 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVH_wxk9ZtE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fSgsvJC9Nw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uj5uvKrDbmQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIlauccaH88 Spotify | 7bvmGyFDwpHNRRRZJ0AHvn | 2018 | Contemporary R&B | Indie Pop | Hip Hop | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Blood-Orange-Negro-Swan/release/12647360 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVH_wxk9ZtE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fSgsvJC9Nw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uj5uvKrDbmQ | |
| 79847 | Happy Mondays | Pills 'N' Thrills And Bellyaches | 2 | Sounds like? brit-pop with an incorporation of dance ideas (80s style) Moods Manchester kids discover rave Thoughts A bit dated but I can understand the influence. This sounds like a definitive representation of rock kids discovering the joy of raving, there's something undeniably youthful about this. I prefer modern versions of rock / dance-pop hybrids as they sound more refined, the initial impact of this albums originality is waning. There are comparisons to the stone roses ( I guess cause their both from manchester?) which I don't agree with. I much prefer the stone roses brand of brit-pop infused with psychedelica. I don't plan on revisiting this. Though give it a try, allmusic thinks it's a perfect 5. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Happy-Mondays-Pills-N-Thrills-And-Bellyaches/release/79847 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6i_a6UGrhs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WifHgsBhd4M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CQLAhNlbfQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6M0xdLO_bmo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD4Nfdv0tcc Spotify | 2Qo9lJydzuAmcBUjGOvrMQ | 1990 | Alternative Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Happy-Mondays-Pills-N-Thrills-And-Bellyaches/release/79847 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6i_a6UGrhs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WifHgsBhd4M | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2CQLAhNlbfQ | |||
| 6341713 | Shawty Pimp, Reddog | Comin' Real Wit It | 4 | Sounds like? 90s graphic southern rap Moods A hipster gangster rap reissue and classic soundtrack for riding dirty. Thoughts This is the stuff of hipster dreams: a tape reissue from an obscure southern rapper. The result has this pleasing lofi quality, you get the sense that part of the production is missing from the version you're hearing; as if you've been ripped a tape of a tape that's lost part of the fidelity. Songs are really just flows, not much pop structure but it's fun and loose, noones swinging for the fences with over production and songwriters. Gives it a refreshing personal intimacy. Graphic for sure but if you're OK with that its appealing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Shawty-Pimp-Feat-Reddog-Comin-Real-Wit-It/release/6341713 Listen! Spotify | 6VkHJEjG6fJv7EomwT5IIt | 2014 | Gangsta | Hardcore Hip-Hop | Thug Rap | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Shawty-Pimp-Feat-Reddog-Comin-Real-Wit-It/release/6341713 | #REF! | ||||
| 11564458 | U.S. Girls | In A Poem Unlimited | 4 | Sounds like? Gritty 70s rock with a strong modern lyricst Moods A gritty, literary, pop-rock masterpiece Thoughts I'm not familiar with Meg Remy's entire catalog but this is a good example of something that borrows heavily from music in the past but without trying to imitate entirely. Great textures and jazzy horns that move quick. Not polished, gritty and textured with modern electro flourishes here and there. Great pop writing at its core. Her voice is a delicate alto which naturally adds a vulnerable personalness. She's a fantastic lyricst who can keep up with the best abstract and literary singers albeit in a direct wit. She's protesting, it carries aggression towards aspects of life from emotional abuse to plastics, most importantly the struggle of being a woman in today's world. Very full, not a bit of filler on this and a standout of modern rock. Incidental boogie.. damn love that track. More Info https://www.discogs.com/US-Girls-In-A-Poem-Unlimited/release/11564458 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YkIvuGYGqA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9PLXHDEUFE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtGb5NiGBjc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cFnewlPpzI Spotify | 5mcuyVRQmrRlfFqDDfJI1q | 2018 | #VALUE! | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/US-Girls-In-A-Poem-Unlimited/release/11564458 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YkIvuGYGqA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9PLXHDEUFE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtGb5NiGBjc | |||
| 3488609 | Kindness | World, You Need A Change Of Mind | 3 | Sounds like? Electro-pop, bit of instrumentation, light soul funk Moods Mainstream panda bear Thoughts I like his brand of pop, he's got this lazy delivery that feels very much his own. It's got a reverb effect which is really the extent of the panda bear comparison. Just the right amount of house friendly electronics and chilled out pop band. Confident with a clear vision in mind, the end result speaks for itself with good and varied pop songs; I can honestly say I like every track here with a few standouts early in the album: 'Swinging party' is a nice little sing along, he can cut a good pop-friendly house beat too, Album opener 'SEOD' sets the mood appropriately. Good fun vibes on 'anyone can fall in love'. Recommend for male alt-pop fans who like acts like twin shadow and how to dress well. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kindness-World-You-Need-A-Change-Of-Mind/release/3488609 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdeR3Mw1fhE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZxPsLjinP4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jddGsBE_eIs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI73NFINsyo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROAjl5JkunI Spotify | 5dVgaWc2WdCC6i4EcA2Bgr | 2012 | #VALUE! | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Kindness-World-You-Need-A-Change-Of-Mind/release/3488609 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdeR3Mw1fhE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZxPsLjinP4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jddGsBE_eIs | |||
| 8205358 | Anna Meredith | Varmints | 3 | Sounds like? Experimental electro which dabbles in a variety of styles and compositional approaches. Moods Creative, is there a Julliard for electro? Anna Meredith should probably be the dean Thoughts There's an unpolished approach here that appeals to me; things aren't perfect. It's got a punk-like intensity as art that demands attention. A lot of musicians seem to be confirming to this mood-muzak style and Varmints fights that. Compositionally rooted in prog rock and classical moments, I struggle with how to describe this. That's a good thing as its succeeds in its ambitions. Need to look further into her catalog. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Anna-Meredith-Varmints/release/8205358 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vajhs2wBeCU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMLXiNfxdI8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4F2_cWk8cY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_MO6fL6D7M Spotify | 1qVKTHX3HLFIi9PkTldCus | 2016 | Modern Classical | Electronic | Classical | https://www.discogs.com/Anna-Meredith-Varmints/release/8205358 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vajhs2wBeCU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMLXiNfxdI8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4F2_cWk8cY | |||
| 156092 | The Stone Roses | The Stone Roses | 5 | Sounds like? British semi-psychedelica jangly 80s rock Moods I wanna be adored Thoughts There's a certain magic captured on this album that makes this essential music. It's a wanderlust feeling that speaks really well to a coming of age person, exploring relationships with poetry but not sappiness. The twinge of psychedelica gives it this slight haze that serves as a great balance to the expertly crafted pop. It shows it's age in places but I still really enjoy the first half which continues to age well, especially with newer fascinations with 'chill vibes'. For years this was exclusively a headphone album. Relistening a decade later I think how great this would've been live at an outdoor festival, enjoyed with community. I'm really attracted to the jammy bits which I could see opening up into some cool things live (especially fools gold). More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Stone-Roses-The-Stone-Roses/release/156092 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4D2qcbu26gs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD6Pq0bSMPo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NrLBlw9WZE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-WRa8jtZD0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNfHoPIxhXM Spotify | 0um9FI6BLBldL5POP4D4Cw | 1989 | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Stone-Roses-The-Stone-Roses/release/156092 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4D2qcbu26gs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD6Pq0bSMPo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NrLBlw9WZE | ||||
| 13230387 | Topdown Dialectic | Topdown Dialectic | 4 | Sounds like? minimal house with ambient ideas Moods A black cosmos speckled with particle grooves Thoughts Really connect with this. Highly repetitive song structures with interesting bits that subtly float up through the rhythm. There tends to be some rhythm even when it's at is most atmospheric, makes this an accessible record for people who wouldn't typically listen to ambient. Production mimics lofi at times. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Topdown-Dialectic-Topdown-Dialectic/release/13230387 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWRk6DUlR8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTED4Tn_q6o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy-2mEg9TTU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89usL-4pI1s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zMkBu_E84Y Spotify | 0essyRlR0LCcgEsHjLyUTY | 2018 | Experimental | Techno | Dub | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Topdown-Dialectic-Topdown-Dialectic/release/13230387 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWRk6DUlR8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTED4Tn_q6o | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy-2mEg9TTU | ||
| 12415861 | Tirzah | Devotion | 3 | Sounds like? DIY R&b Moods Somewhere in love Thoughts The unpolished rawness defines this album, the beats are sparse and highly repetitive with just a drum machine and synth short loop for each song; almost like a modern acoustic album. Her natural singing voice is subdued and focused on love; often in big statements but never too excited. I guess it's a testament to her songwriting that this works as well as it does. It's an intimate listen, definitively British and at times ghostly like early James Blake. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tirzah-Devotion/release/12415861 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZPP38OVT-M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oA6c0WXGKjU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2EIDPpzXUE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KFvEvRAjyw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWUODt6LJ0Y Spotify | 15GocbF7ybkkPP03YXtLqv | 2018 | Contemporary R&B | Leftfield | Indie Pop | Electronic | Funk / Soul | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Tirzah-Devotion/release/12415861 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZPP38OVT-M | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oA6c0WXGKjU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2EIDPpzXUE |
| 12867498 | Overmono | Whities 019 | 3 | Sounds like? rhythmic leftfield electro Moods accessible experimental electro Thoughts As good as anything that's been produced by interesting leftfield artists in recent years. A good example is the dueling percussion lines on track 1: skittish like aphex twin, but also has a hip and appealing vibe. Really solid on further listens, tight EP. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Overmono-Whities-019/release/12867498 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjrclkgODdk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtT4LktJmWg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9fOHmPA4qU Spotify | 4UM3zSo4r0kZDC0Z7pBQZ7 | 2018 | Techno | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Overmono-Whities-019/release/12867498 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjrclkgODdk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtT4LktJmWg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9fOHmPA4qU | ||||
| 11900528 | Owane | Yeah Whatever | 2 | Sounds like? jammy prog rock with nu-jazz chops Moods guitar wanking Thoughts Progs not really my thing. I admire the technical prowess on display ( this album is impressively precise) but it lacks heart and songwriting. It veers heavily into wanky jammy stuff, making music for the sake of making music; not sure what purpose it serves. There are moments and talent but I think you can find a better album to turn on. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Owane-Yeah-Whatever/release/11900528 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNjiQt1GbH8 Spotify | 2cKE8z1nvwQUJdbptKlgax | 2018 | Fusion | Prog Rock | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Owane-Yeah-Whatever/release/11900528 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNjiQt1GbH8 | ||||
| 12194261 | Sam Gendel, Sam Wilkes | Music For Saxofone & Bass Guitar | 4 | Sounds like? Abstract bedroom smooth jazz Moods Hangs around like steam rising after a summer downpour. Thoughts Bunch of rough ambient sax and basic supporting sounds like a drum machine or bass line. At times it's like they're boiling modern r&b to its most basic form with looping finger snaps or whispery beatbox. It's a bunch of sketches, not really an album. There's a lot of ambient background noise, effective as another texture like burial. Has an improv vibe. Gendel is a good sax player, really hear his rich sound on the solos ( track one is a good example). More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sam-Gendel-Sam-Wilkes-Music-For-Saxofone-Bass-Guitar/release/12194261 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enX9Fr-I8MA Spotify | 7JYNuRlEFI6ZFrdi64mnBO | 2018 | Abstract | Easy Listening | Experimental | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Sam-Gendel-Sam-Wilkes-Music-For-Saxofone-Bass-Guitar/release/12194261 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enX9Fr-I8MA | |||
| 2447492 | The Crusaders | Crusaders 1 | 3 | Sounds like? groovy jazz funk rock (fusion?) Moods Crack open a can of that smooth 70s groove Thoughts polished and slick fusion that's pretty straightforward rock at times. Lots of brass and 70s funk licks. A little too slick and jazzy at times for me to call it a record I love (that might be one of my problems with fusion is that it sits in the middle) but I can dig this groove, that drummer is so in the pocket it's ridiculous. Love some parts - keys solo on Georgia cottonfield. The chilled out funk on so far away, an album highlight. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Crusaders-Crusaders-1/release/2447492 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J84IiZ6WfGI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OahE2GGaGq4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHGlEvEtbuU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jXsPUB-Qf0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfSp5gcFf9w Spotify | 6Rf2oSu4p6FZUDYQp4nI4Y | 1972 | Jazz-Funk | Rhythm & Blues | Funk | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/The-Crusaders-Crusaders-1/release/2447492 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J84IiZ6WfGI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OahE2GGaGq4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHGlEvEtbuU | |
| 12601284 | Sun Ra | Lanquidity | 3 | Sounds like? large lazy bluesy jazz Moods Sun Ra at his most groovy Thoughts This kicks off with a bore but picks up quick with 'Where pathways meet'; a swinging jazz track with elements of rock and blues that give it a pretty hip feel. It's got an appealing imperfection, it falls in and out of time as if it's of not much importance. 'That's how I feel' continues the vibe but things get a little sleepier. Rhodes solos take the place of the electric guitar and a nocturnal atmosphere sets in. There's some type of hand drum on these tracks and it sounds like they recorded it by putting the microphone in the drum to get this fantastic tone. A groovy outing from one of the legends in avant-garde jazz. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sun-Ra-Lanquidity/release/12601284 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=238Dh6N9GLg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf-OxkoTNp4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_KLSKSX2PM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5vRHbQoTlc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtVmUKcI5l4 Spotify | 4UoSzYIJjNTHgq5gMd84Gw | 1978 | Avant-garde Jazz | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Sun-Ra-Lanquidity/release/12601284 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=238Dh6N9GLg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf-OxkoTNp4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_KLSKSX2PM | |||
| 7837490 | Max Graef Band | Dog | 4 | Sounds like? Jazzy punk funk by amateurs Moods An enjoyable jazzy dance punk record Thoughts The basic but prominent bass work give this an 80s dance punk vibe like the minutemen or that other LES stuff like the ESG. Keys and rhythm provide an accessible jazz funk but it remains grounded. A great hybrid of those two styles, nothing inventive but it's a fun record with an easy amateur feel that's appealing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Max-Graef-Band-Dog-/release/7837490 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXorVKlYj1Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBDwyynSBL4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9P5lvySQLo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TRBQec5A7U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8RSUcX2zV0 Spotify | 5IBNWVfzLLagseqT56CkgD | 2015 | Jazz-Funk | Disco | Electronic | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Max-Graef-Band-Dog-/release/7837490 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXorVKlYj1Y | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBDwyynSBL4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9P5lvySQLo | |
| 46619 | Kettel | Smiling Little Cow | 2 | Sounds like? IDM Moods Like an unpretentious aphex twin record Thoughts quick but not aggressive. Intelligent but fun. flirts with drum and bass but never goes there. A representative album of golden age IDM - electronic music with folk sensibilities. Taken as a whole it drags, too over blown without appropriate variety. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Kettel-Smiling-Little-Cow/release/46619 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43ayL6PpzCI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6G7vC_T860 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isUkpMY3AIw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpGxO9bj6_4 Spotify | 3k8bIdbBmxB3SL8RhEkQrr | 2002 | IDM | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Kettel-Smiling-Little-Cow/release/46619 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43ayL6PpzCI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6G7vC_T860 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isUkpMY3AIw | ||||
| 12899152 | Various | Brainfeeder X | 3 | Sounds like? Modern alternative electro with a strong influence of hip hop and jazz. Moods An exploratory dive into the wonderful brainfeeder Thoughts It's incredible to hear what brainfeeder has become. In my mind I continue to associate the label (incorrectly) as a 1 trick pony built around flying lotus' wompy LA g-funk. The label is so much more and the brainfeeder roster has expanded on this in directions I wasn't aware of: alt hip hop, chilled out funk, ambient, glitchy house, live jazz.. it's all there and more. I won't spend too much time getting into the album as sound vary but it's all quality. The first half is devoted to the past, whereas the second half is forward looking with unreleased tracks. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with an exceptional label. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Various-Brainfeeder-X/release/12899152 Listen! Spotify | 2018 | Contemporary Jazz | Bass Music | Electronic | Hip Hop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Various-Brainfeeder-X/release/12899152 | #VALUE! | ||||
| 387439 | Dream Theater | Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes From A Memory | 2 | Sounds like? Progressive metal Moods Self indulgent and overly technical Thoughts Did I like this at one point? I don't anymore. The whole thing feels self indulgent with overly technical instrumentation and lyrics that are forced. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Dream-Theater-Metropolis-Pt-2-Scenes-From-A-Memory/release/387439 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W4BwLEykGU Spotify | 1999 | Progressive Metal | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Dream-Theater-Metropolis-Pt-2-Scenes-From-A-Memory/release/387439 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W4BwLEykGU | |||||||
| 383812 | The Strokes | Is This It | 5 | Sounds like? Modern guitar driven indie rock Moods A masterpiece of youth that captures the newfound excitement of urban independence Thoughts A simple masterpiece for two reasons: Compositionally it's an album of quick chord driven indie tracks. Melodic, memorable, Danceable and remarkably varied; it works well in its entirety. Albert Hammond Junior is a competent guitarist whose style fits perfectly, loose and slightly technical, who seems to always sneak in the perfect crunchy solo. Casablancas observant lyrics which perfectly capture a relatable time in life when you've come into your own independence and a 'is this it?' type of epiphany is made that's a mix of excitement and disappointment. I find 'Hard to explain' to be the precise moment in the record where this all boils over in emotion. He's in perfect form here. A modern record with a Lou Reed vibe and post punk energy. Hasn't aged a bit and on relistens the strength of these songs is realized. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Strokes-Is-This-It/release/383812 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzO7IGWGxu8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knU9gRUWCno https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOypSnKFHrE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXkm6h6uq0k Spotify | 2k8KgmDp9oHrmu0MIj4XDE | 2001 | Indie Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Strokes-Is-This-It/release/383812 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzO7IGWGxu8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knU9gRUWCno | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOypSnKFHrE | ||||
| 1483789 | The Zombies | Begin Here | 3 | Sounds like? basic mod rock and roll with a slight whiff of psychedelia Moods Underrated mod rock weirdos Thoughts There's a refreshing simplicity to their sound that's aged well: melodic and just the right layer of keys. Capturing the rock and roll sound of a number of bands of that era (see early Beatles, Stones) but with a genuineness that's a little weird, they feel like unaccepted outsiders. Lots of highlights here, and some familiar covers, which true to the albums title does feel like the perfect place to begin with The Zombies. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Zombies-Begin-Here/release/1483789 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g49ckFpRheo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2hXBf1DakE Spotify | 1vWVHhniWzqyNC0UzDDGs4 | 1965 | Pop Rock | Mod | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Zombies-Begin-Here/release/1483789 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g49ckFpRheo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2hXBf1DakE | ||||
| 12922932 | Michel Isorinne | Stumhetens toner | 3 | Sounds like? ambient keyboard music Moods Soundtrack for a regretful protagonist in a 2D RPG talking to NPCs in a new town, trying to find his way home Thoughts While an ambient record the keys playing gives it this subtle rhythm with little floating sentimental melodies. Could be an RPG video game soundtrack, feeling like a stranger in a new town just trying to find his way home through a life of regret. Things take a more menacing tone in the second half where tracks have a brooding machine like intensity, as if these are electro b-sides born from Floyd's 'welcome to the machine' More Info https://www.discogs.com/Isorinne-Stumhetens-toner/release/12922932 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6eHdaKX-_Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxswoTpwTrI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOnEHQIX16k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qD5V9Tfu0rA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAqJbt6J7U0 Spotify | 2018 | Ambient | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Isorinne-Stumhetens-toner/release/12922932 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6eHdaKX-_Q | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxswoTpwTrI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOnEHQIX16k | ||||
| 11181166 | Locust Toybox | Drownscapes | 3 | Sounds like? ethereal ambient with bits of melody Moods Drifting through sentimental English countryside Thoughts At the end of the brainfeeder x compilation was a curious 'classical' soundtrack by a guy named locust toybox. Clicking through to his spotify profile he has an artist playlist called melodic aphex twin tracks; before even hearing a note it seemed like we shared similar tastes. I was right, this album has some great ambient with tracks that maintain the wide open freeform of ambient while still incorporating melody and structure. These melodic moments give this an overall pleasantness. 'Saptiro' towards the middle changes things directly into left field electro territory, adding some hand drum rhythm. 'Unborn' is an album highlight, with a rousing choral sample and deep bass thump. Probably the most intense moment. Overall the album is far too long, dragging toward the end. Still worth hearing as there are some gems. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Locust-Toybox-Drownscapes/release/11181166 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if6B3brW67M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTDIcOAkrqg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_8zdxYsEy0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWQFk6DpUv4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdWXRX6Me_4 Spotify | 20mchDZ5y6805vCOq6liZf | 2017 | Ambient | Downtempo | Drone | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Locust-Toybox-Drownscapes/release/11181166 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if6B3brW67M | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTDIcOAkrqg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_8zdxYsEy0 | ||
| 5503643 | Traffic | The Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys | 2 | Sounds like? 70's rock with a rhythmic Latin element, soulful, long prog rock structures Moods Light up or leave me alone Thoughts I've saved a few tracks to playlists but this isn't the type of thing I plan on revisiting much in the future. The title track is well regarded by critics. It's good, especially through its composition and phases, but a long one at almost 12 minutes. Something always feels a little square with Traffic records, can't put my hands on it. Might be the flute. Still hard to deny their ability and this has that 'classic' sound that only this era can produce. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Traffic-The-Low-Spark-Of-High-Heeled-Boys/release/5503643 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4Yb2bEekkE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY-_Y_7p55M Spotify | 1971 | Psychedelic Rock | Prog Rock | Classic Rock | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Traffic-The-Low-Spark-Of-High-Heeled-Boys/release/5503643 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4Yb2bEekkE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY-_Y_7p55M | ||||
| 12777177 | Objekt | Cocoon Crush | 2 | Sounds like? cerebral left field artsy experimental electro with a boom Moods Earthworms eating Thoughts There's this skittering sound he uses that gives it this insect like feel. The blurry line between organic and mechanical nature of bugs,he plays into this with a creepiness. I enjoyed this the first time through with it's detailed and rich production, lots of little earworms to get lost in. These are songs and it's a testament to his ability as a songwriter (lots of electronic musicians focus only on the sound and develop little in the way of composition). However after multiple listens I feel it's missing something. I moved past the immediacy of the beauty and found myself bored and thinking about what's next. I can appreciate these songs as singles but as an album it felt too much. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Objekt-Cocoon-Crush/release/12777177 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlW2naIokwA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QwceWXWi-w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqZF0wTEwF4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj-kgypzFnU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zUAoHc4eZc Spotify | 2mMr1UCtck27p1xPJzqrLL | 2018 | Techno | Experimental | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Objekt-Cocoon-Crush/release/12777177 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlW2naIokwA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QwceWXWi-w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqZF0wTEwF4 | |||
| 13379392 | The Comet Is Coming | Channel The Spirits | 3 | Sounds like? jazzy rock with heavy electronics and a slight psych vibe Moods a positively bumping affair Thoughts A true hybrid that shows the capability of genre bending. It's a big and rocking record, with this heavy hum underpinning the songs, showing the 'maximum' sound of dubstep and heavy rock. The sax adds a nice contrast to this heavy sound, cutting through sharply as a welcome texture. With his blistering free-jazz squawk it makes it feel like the whole thing could boil over at any point. I like the overall style, jazzy without too much exploration. To be fair this is a studio album, a lot of these songs are prime jumping points solos; I'd be VERY interested to see this band live. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Comet-Is-Coming-Channel-The-Spirits/release/13379392 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXH5nv1aQpw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bih6JQzbFY0 Spotify | 441x6HdMizo6MAtTYo3eGV | 2019 | Psychedelic Rock | Electronic | Jazz | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Comet-Is-Coming-Channel-The-Spirits/release/13379392 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXH5nv1aQpw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bih6JQzbFY0 | |||
| 12148892 | Billy Harper | Black Saint | 5 | Sounds like? Post bop Moods A dense, urban post bop masterpiece Thoughts Great album,has an energy that's very west village jazz: dense, subterranean, and fighting restraint. The constant crash symbol use adds this de-constructing vibe. Heavy swirling and dissonant solos provide a madness. These guys are on point and each bring this intensity here. Typically I reserve a 5-star for music that is essential in the catalog of sound. Could the world live without this record? Absolutely but I think it's such a remarkable illustration of the genre that it's essential. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Billy-Harper-Black-Saint/release/12148892 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJOVUCEcsLg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edV6QIkWxr8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvTNnswzjhc Spotify | 0RoXCHXFix77Wu9bPD3xlj | 1975 | Post Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Billy-Harper-Black-Saint/release/12148892 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJOVUCEcsLg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edV6QIkWxr8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvTNnswzjhc | ||||
| 8581632 | Radiohead | A Moon Shaped Pool | 3 | Sounds like? depressing rock with a focus on atmosphere Moods A mediocre album for Radiohead fans only Thoughts If this weren't a Radiohead record I don't know how I'd feel. I like it overall but I've also given it more listens because I'm a fan of theirs. There's interesting things happening, the band has become very good at creating an overall vibe, but the songs themselves feel a bit rough. Maybe that's the point: a lot of this is wonderful live and can be fleshed out further into some really engaging live sets. The incorporation of strings reminds me of a smoother version of Beck's string heavy stuff and super furry animals catalog from the 2000's; it's as if Radiohead returns to that period of alt-rock instead of pressing ahead with their own explorations. Maybe they're just getting old, Yorke is pretty lyrical here and I think got divorced right after this came out (might explain the gloom). Songwriting improves as the album progresses (skip the first three tracks entirely) but this remains a mediocre spot in their catalog. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Radiohead-A-Moon-Shaped-Pool/release/8581632 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yI2oS2hoL0k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTAU7lLDZYU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ti6qhk3tX2s Spotify | 6vuykQgDLUCiZ7YggIpLM9 | 2016 | Art Rock | Indie Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Radiohead-A-Moon-Shaped-Pool/release/8581632 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yI2oS2hoL0k | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTAU7lLDZYU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ti6qhk3tX2s | ||
| 12800537 | Mansur Brown | Shiroi | 3 | Sounds like? jazz with an electro hip hop vibe Moods Hip future jazz for sad night owls Thoughts Nocturnal record overall. There's a certain sadness in Brown's guitar playing. On the title track it can be haunting, letting notes ring out into forever; kind of like a technically proficient version of the XX. Other tracks, 'God willing' and 'me up', pick up quicker with an 808 like rhythm. The sound is defined by the bass players prominence in the mix, gives the album a funky urban thump. It's a great style but as an LP it gets monotonous. I think with some songwriting focus and additional instrumentation this could go from good to great. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mansur-Brown-Shiroi/release/12800537 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsHIrqYdacI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOB6Wk22zG8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KNlanLKXWI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kxvVtHEe-U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tvvCtys708 Spotify | 4fL2WmOafyMnGU9i7svCLy | 2018 | Contemporary Jazz | Soul | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Mansur-Brown-Shiroi/release/12800537 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsHIrqYdacI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOB6Wk22zG8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KNlanLKXWI | ||
| 13076529 | Anthony Naples | Take Me With You | 3 | Sounds like? spacey shimmery electro with a pleasant beat Moods Cerebral Thoughts Upbeat with a downtempo dubby reverb. Has a nice flow. Tracks are short with new ideas ebbing into one another, like this approach compared with other producers who sometimes let an idea play on for too long. Solid record. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Anthony-Naples-Take-Me-With-You/release/13076529 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1Fp2r4eCXY Spotify | 6IaBX5I6MLRDB9a10HU9Y1 | 2019 | Deep House | House | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Anthony-Naples-Take-Me-With-You/release/13076529 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1Fp2r4eCXY | ||||
| 2281630 | Actress | Splazsh | 4 | Sounds like? Accessible experimental electro Moods Deep dank dark club music Thoughts this isn't gunning for the dance floor but it would work really well in certain 'dance' settings. Thinking smoke machines, deep, rhythmic. It conjures up bad sound systems with tracks that have this bloated bass like you're listening to a dj through the basement floor of a club. Maybe that's the point: It's club like music presented out of context, from far away. Detached as an observer. The whole thing feels hazy, like it's filtered through something. weed maybe... i dunno but there's a separation between the listener and the music. He's pushing electronic music forward in his own way, I suspect this will age well. At 10 years it still sounds relevant. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Actress-Splazsh/release/2281630 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0FmZReUWXU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcnRT-m9MYo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqUzSq1MVh0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0bJUbcBP_c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqQFMjUySio Spotify | 6juLSi9BFmVwOjs7pAThZm | 2010 | Bass Music | Techno | Dubstep | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Actress-Splazsh/release/2281630 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0FmZReUWXU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcnRT-m9MYo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqUzSq1MVh0 | ||
| 34646 | Michael Mayer | Immer | 5 | Sounds like? Minimal house Moods One of the finest minimal house mixes ever is now on YouTube! Thoughts Michael Mayer's immer and fabric mixes were eye-opening to me in terms of what mix is capable of. Taken alone the tracks on Immer aren't anything special - bit of bounce here, bit of ambiance there - stitched together they become this incredible cohesive entity. The subtle shifts are perfectly timed and show a mastery of songwriting even when it's all borrowed sounds. I love the sparse emptiness of minimal, there's something so alienating yet comforting about it. Immer has a sound I can only describe as grey, like the weather in Berlin or the film tone in those Nordic crime dramas. Mayer's skill here is largely reliant on his tasteful selection and vision for this mix which is executed perfectly. Kompakt is an impressive label but Immer is in a league of its own, forever indeed. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Michael-Mayer-Immer/release/34646 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PeTIa1yGao Spotify | 2002 | Techno | Minimal | Tech House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Michael-Mayer-Immer/release/34646 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PeTIa1yGao | |||||
| 10025434 | Octo Octa | Where Are We Going? | 3 | Sounds like? Energetic electro Moods Cerebral yet fun Thoughts enjoyable mash of some of favorite styles. Has the energy and flow of a set at times though these are extended cuts. Fleeting moments of freedom brings to mind a fun 'bouncy' dance night out, love the playful loop backs. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Octo-Octa-Where-Are-We-Going/release/10025434 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T4ogb-eWoY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiOz3JQqBgc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM4ssluYUtc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOL4pW-rGZ8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECG3HWEqiF0 Spotify | 2T9iECGffkRNhiKkQU7gLd | 2017 | Deep House | House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Octo-Octa-Where-Are-We-Going/release/10025434 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T4ogb-eWoY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiOz3JQqBgc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM4ssluYUtc | |||
| 12081230 | Shy Layers | Midnight Marker | 4 | Sounds like? jazzy electro pop rock with vocoder Moods A record that puts me in a good mood: chill with a pop, happy but not cheery, loose while tight. Thoughts all around enjoyable, strikes a nice balance. Has the precision of jazz and electronic but maintains a loose feel. The vocoder lyrics add a nice touch: never trying to steal the spotlight but adding an accessible hook. This record succeeds with it's songwriting and leaves rewards got repeat listens. It's presented simply but is an intricate production. Philip Sherburne did a nice write-up for Pitchfork on this: As before, Midnight Marker’s breezy melodies and lilting grooves make for a nice, chill listen—good morning-coffee music, cooking music, countryside-drive music. But this is nothing like the studied, stoned remove of anything you’ll find filed under “#chill” on any streaming service. His synths have real bite. His drums, recorded with real sticks on real skins, are enviably muscled. Walsh has said that one of his takeaways from both highlife and funk was that the guitar could function primarily as a percussive instrument, and he continues down that path here, backing up more melodically outgoing riffs and runs with plucked pulse and flicker. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Shy-Layers-Midnight-Marker/release/12081230 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYuYnAdVZ7Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFwx4Ay70CU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28GZ8Nomy1w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbCAdmysIT0 Spotify | 70dkUe4f8OHeROal6dFbXa | 2018 | Synth-pop | Indie Pop | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Shy-Layers-Midnight-Marker/release/12081230 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYuYnAdVZ7Q | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFwx4Ay70CU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28GZ8Nomy1w | ||
| 2560746 | Quincy Jones | Walking In Space | 2 | Sounds like? soulful jazz arrangements Moods big band jazz-funk Thoughts Arrangements are rich and instrumentation as good as any with exceptional guitar work (best displayed on the bluesy standout 'love and peace'). However it's missing a certain rawness the great jazz-funk of the era holds, limits the appeal. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Quincy-Jones-Walking-In-Space/release/2560746 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWoqvBFeCrI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebvHk62DUtA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJgTzLsvCKQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXQ4r4y3Wdc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aASXNyc6xmY Spotify | 0o2ZKR3DbPg23bt11WiWhS | 1969 | Soul-Jazz | Big Band | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Quincy-Jones-Walking-In-Space/release/2560746 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWoqvBFeCrI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebvHk62DUtA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJgTzLsvCKQ | |
| 11258667 | Tom Rogerson,Brian Eno | Finding Shore | 2 | Sounds like? Keyboard and general electronic noodling Moods A soundtrack for those euphoric and reflective moments Thoughts There are some interesting bits but nothing cohesive as individual songs or as an overall album. Not quite ambient, not quite solo keyboard, feels undecided and suffers as a result. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Tom-Rogerson-With-Brian-Eno-Finding-Shore/release/11258667 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SroYdHuv9z8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZri_BOuRy0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBgvXNRxEsU Spotify | 2017 | Ambient | Modern Classical | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Tom-Rogerson-With-Brian-Eno-Finding-Shore/release/11258667 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SroYdHuv9z8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZri_BOuRy0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBgvXNRxEsU | ||||
| 890204 | Donald Byrd | Ethiopian Knights | 5 | Sounds like? jazz with funk rock chops Moods Top notch jazz-funk Thoughts these are long cuts that give way to extended jams. Patience is rewarding: 'the emperor' is funky strum guitar and groovy picking bass line gives way to solos from xylophone and Byrd on trumpet. It's great. 'Jamie' is a brief chilled out piece in comparison, gospel like at times with the organ. 'Little rasti' brings back the groove where things are ever so slightly dirtier (think as if it were the late show at a jazz club as opposed to a cleaner early show on 'the emperor'). Things kick off with a drum solo and then get into a groovy set of solos this time include Wawa guitar, keys and of course a very confident Byrd. I'm hard pressed to think of better funk rock jazz from this or any of the era. On par with Miles and a must for fans of the genre. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Donald-Byrd-Ethiopian-Knights/release/890204 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtKcvoeO2vA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhiYaTLP8xM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAycZvJwtIA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=av4j96aEDAA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvHQGXdvbDc Spotify | 5Y91dijjpECGa62GvTUQro | 1998 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz-Funk | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Donald-Byrd-Ethiopian-Knights/release/890204 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtKcvoeO2vA | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhiYaTLP8xM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAycZvJwtIA | |||
| 7490374 | Mariah | うたかたの日々/ Utakata No Hibi | 4 | Sounds like? Experimental new wave rock Moods New age meets post punk in this highly accessible piece of experimental music Thoughts Yasuaki Shimizu was involved in some interesting music during the early 80's that has held up well to the test of time. Mariah is one of the better entries with easy to appreciate melodic elements and an overall positive energy. His particular brand of experimental music has a similar sound - part worldly, new wave, post punk, krautrock's rhythmic chug - that weaves together in a rich sound. 'Hana ga saitara' borrows this energetic string bow pull, sounds like a ship and it's sort of disorienting. Lyrics here remind me a lot of some straightforward talking heads songs. Something about this remains very "future", a forebear to vaporwave but so much larger. The result is magnificent and something that should be heard. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mariah-%E3%81%86%E3%81%9F%E3%81%8B%E3%81%9F%E3%81%AE%E6%97%A5%E3%80%85-Utakata-No-Hibi/release/7490374 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UIBLA-PuUw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRgLhEGEetc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEHL6WBH_qk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4xdyQAq6rs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xh2PU74kRXY Spotify | 2015 | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Mariah-%E3%81%86%E3%81%9F%E3%81%8B%E3%81%9F%E3%81%AE%E6%97%A5%E3%80%85-Utakata-No-Hibi/release/7490374 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UIBLA-PuUw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRgLhEGEetc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEHL6WBH_qk | |||||
| 12782873 | Shit And Shine | Bad Vibes | 3 | Sounds like? intense electro Moods Electroshock dance-punk Thoughts booming and slightly brooding electro with weight, drifts into acid house territory at times. A couple tracks (acid and backstage) take a warped vocal sampling approach to hedonistic activities while still holding this catchy dance-punk beat. All songs are open ended and freeform with heavy repetition on basic basslines. For that reason I'd leave this for slightly more experimental listeners with a tolerance for that kind of thing. It seems like a group that would have an interesting live show with lots of places for improvisations. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Shit-Shine-Bad-Vibes/release/12782873 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ5bLD3JDtc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPj2uqCwS6s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b3KORG031c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_F9sH3RYonc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IukyZwcV7bc Spotify | 7I4vY9lmCMKXkuowe6JBkX | 2018 | Experimental | Techno | Electro | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Shit-Shine-Bad-Vibes/release/12782873 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ5bLD3JDtc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPj2uqCwS6s | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5b3KORG031c | ||
| 484910 | Koushik | Be With | 4 | Sounds like? 60s psychedelica with a hip hop bend Moods hauntology psychedelica Thoughts There's an effort here to make this sound old with vinyl record crackle and surface noise as well as low fidelity mics. It's effective and compliments the scattered instrumentation to create a spectral hazy psychedelica that's interesting and true to original influences (not the watered down modern 'chill' stuff). Works well, rivals caribous early catalog who does a very similar thing ( honestly you could've told me Dan snaith made this as it's a dead ringer to some of his work). More Info https://www.discogs.com/Koushik-Be-With/release/484910 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs1inZNRlKw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqZCiW5pGlM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FikemItj6tI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsVy6a7dl7I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxfz8TmJ8gs Spotify | 48ZI7WUFC7TuiXFPcwmgBu | 2005 | Breakbeat | Abstract | Psychedelic Rock | Electronic | Hip Hop | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Koushik-Be-With/release/484910 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs1inZNRlKw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqZCiW5pGlM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FikemItj6tI |
| 2494475 | Darkstar | North | 3 | Sounds like? mid aughts uk electro, gloomy synth pop with digital interference Moods A mournful synthpop record that explores man's fragile relationship with machines Thoughts has that slightly dark quality certain bands can pull off well (think wild beasts, miike snow, spiritualized). It's emotional music but some of the impact feels limited by the reliance on synthesisers. Poetic in a 'ghost in the machine' exhausted-by-technology kind of way but at 10 years old, it definitely feels like commentary from a time before now; when we admired technology before we truly started to fear it's scary data (people) focus. I think I like the sound more than the overall songs but it's a good record nonetheless. Darkstar utilize this cracking in the vocals that has an interesting effect, I thought my files were corrupt the first time. I interpret it as a commentary on man's role in music, the beautiful imperfection. Mark Fisher originally brought this to my attention, worth a read here: https://markfisherreblog.tumblr.com/post/32185314385/you-remind-me-of-gold-dialogue-with-simon More Info https://www.discogs.com/Darkstar-North/release/2494475 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY8-85U4UWo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1oC0-xx_Hc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osIZ5ETBBeM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHJwtc2qYPU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d7nUgy4_Jc Spotify | 3L8CxEIZ2lVkKgTo9GHeyw | 2010 | Synth-pop | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Darkstar-North/release/2494475 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY8-85U4UWo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1oC0-xx_Hc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osIZ5ETBBeM | ||||
| 3934932 | Sonny Rollins | Saxophone Colossus | 4 | Sounds like? Urban hard bop Moods Damn fine hardbop, one of the best 'saxophone' records ever Thoughts Rollins playing is fantastic on this. His solos consume most of the tracks and he plays with an impressive amount of variety. Consistently dexterous and light, it's engaging and a must hear for bop fans. The first couple tracks are alright, Rollins early solos compliment Roaches quick percussion. 'Strode rode' is what got me into the record. Impressive Rollins is delicate on solos like 'moritat', almost samba like in his agility. 'Blue 7' is a nice finish, nocturnal hip and cool. All around good session if nothing incredibly inventive, the playing is fantastic and the tracks are memorable. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Sonny-Rollins-Saxophone-Colossus/release/3934932 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCMNWVTxZI4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UA2XIWZxMKM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDagrq6hcYU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7G4DciALDs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ChOkkdT2zw Spotify | 2dtjLAwt7Cq763h6AupyPZ | 1957 | Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Sonny-Rollins-Saxophone-Colossus/release/3934932 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCMNWVTxZI4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UA2XIWZxMKM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDagrq6hcYU | ||||
| 338329 | Thomas Fehlmann | Lowflow | 4 | Sounds like? bassy dub minimal electro Moods A slight euphoric buzz graces these minimal dub tracks / a quiet glee while pregaming for a night-out in Berlin Thoughts these productions are super crisp and rich, no surprise from Thomas Fehlmann. Little textural flourishes everywhere elevate this from standard minimal mood techno to a well crafted album. It has a heavy dub influence with enough bass to give it a pleasant bump throughout, sounds very much like the orb. Quiet and stoned, it takes it's time. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Thomas-Fehlmann-Lowflow/release/338329 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHxJJPmTiTs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1iqD389dss https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuTBCjJTN2M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLryCyusjOQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJFXhinVu8k Spotify | 3lgTWDhiDDHFceBTcrkkCp | 2004 | Downtempo | Dub | IDM | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Thomas-Fehlmann-Lowflow/release/338329 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHxJJPmTiTs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1iqD389dss | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuTBCjJTN2M | ||
| 146498 | MJ Cole | Sincere | 3 | Sounds like? UK garage meets cheesy house Moods A Y2K party in London Thoughts An uneven album. The bad tracks feature Elisabeth Troy doing these overly polished house vocals that lack character; would serve well as Muzak at a slightly dated 'hip' hotel lounge. However the good is REALLY good. These tracks are generally more 'raw' garage like Sincere and Desperado. Memorable melodies that capture a hectic urban pulse. More Info https://www.discogs.com/MJ-Cole-Sincere/release/146498 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXaWfgOGcqY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAZwrZ0MFo0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZE3kncX3qU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_JvvALgD9Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nejpEOeQRfw Spotify | 0V76cokjWCIMO2pnElF1mw | 2000 | UK Garage | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/MJ-Cole-Sincere/release/146498 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXaWfgOGcqY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAZwrZ0MFo0 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZE3kncX3qU | ||||
| 3986030 | Stars | In Our Bedroom After The War | 3 | Sounds like? dramatic art pop Moods A theatrical guilty pleasure Thoughts Musically it varies from synth pop to theatrical show songs, piano ballad on 'Barricade' is a standout example. The dual harmonies of Torquil and Amy are beautiful and delivered with a poetic sincerity. Lyrical scenes are painted vividly with an erudite literary astuteness. These earlier Stars albums strike a guilty pleasure chord for me. I'm not typically into lyrics like these - grandiose, overly romantic, so straightforward - but something here works well. When I'm in the mood for that type of thing nothing satisfies like Stars does. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Stars-In-Our-Bedroom-After-The-War/release/3986030 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzSUIxYQI2E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-K05oBku10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5qx_ZMY7tU Spotify | 4I9BDOOxpLw2ClFDRhTJaN | 2007 | Pop Rock | Vocal | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Stars-In-Our-Bedroom-After-The-War/release/3986030 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzSUIxYQI2E | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-K05oBku10 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5qx_ZMY7tU | ||
| 5046503 | Mr Beatnick | The Synthetes Trilogy | 2 | Sounds like? electro semi dreamy, fun and easy Moods Blissed-out moonlight electro Thoughts The first half is OK, took me a few listens to warm up to but it improved with time. Things take a positive turn at shifting sands - stretches our gets a little more groovy. Honestly it's fine record but nothing worth holding onto. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mr-Beatnick-The-Synthetes-Trilogy/release/5046503 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18MTnH1e5Rs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWFwyP7llKo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNuP-rLb6Uo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kK2lVoimj70 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Js_2ni6lJaI Spotify | 6C9SFfreGBlJxuP7Ts5k8p | 2013 | Deep House | Disco | New Age | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Mr-Beatnick-The-Synthetes-Trilogy/release/5046503 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18MTnH1e5Rs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWFwyP7llKo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNuP-rLb6Uo | ||
| 13695712 | K-Lone | Sine Language | 3 | Sounds like? Gritty hip electro house Moods Raw textures compliment strong productions on this hip minimal electro ep Thoughts Resident Advisor said it well: Sine Language features four very different productions, putting K-Lone's versatility on display. The title track draws on a vintage Detroit style, mixing electro beats and hip-hop vocals—hardly a novel idea in 2019. But a sweet, subtly out-of-place ambient breakdown interrupts the flow at the perfect moment, keeping things interesting. "Batacuda" and "Bells" are experiments at slower tempos, something we've seen a lot of from UK-based producers in recent years, particularly those in the Timedance camp. "Batacuda" floats along, emanating a drowsy humidity, while "Bells" is moody and thoughtful, coated in a chiming haze. "Missed Calls," a carefully crafted piece of taught, polyrhythmic braindance, is probably the best track on the EP. With this kind of eclecticism, a producer takes the risk of spreading themselves too thinly, but not K-Lone. He brings an intelligence and inventiveness to everything he does, unifying his work and making it essential listening every time. More Info https://www.discogs.com/K-Lone-Sine-Language/release/13695712 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifxYPDdNtKk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erI8pZgHwnc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQHdaRoJFHw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTdoBtMea2o Spotify | 4uwblihdqL4JvpYWJxcGB9 | 2019 | Techno | House | Grime | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/K-Lone-Sine-Language/release/13695712 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifxYPDdNtKk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erI8pZgHwnc | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQHdaRoJFHw | ||
| 13594488 | People Plus | Third Space | 3 | Sounds like? Electro jazz Moods Spacey electro jazz - quite nice Thoughts A record that is both chilled out and energetic - ambient down tempo textures meets tight jazz-like instrumentation. Longform instrumental songwriting makes this a record for specific audiences. But it's quite nice overall. Jungle room has a Radiohead meeting in the aisle vibe. O.S.C.1. is a tropical dub thing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/People-Plus-Third-Space/release/13594488 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4E8qrwv6wU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cr9GkR_o6w https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9dY6chQ7Wc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBruPwYpObI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUy5rDnjwi0 Spotify | 4WXxjVkQZpD1zG8wk6lHQZ | 2019 | Downtempo | Deep House | Jazz-Funk | Electronic | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/People-Plus-Third-Space/release/13594488 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4E8qrwv6wU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cr9GkR_o6w | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9dY6chQ7Wc | |
| 4343221 | Space Dimension Controller | Welcome To Mikrosector-50 | 3 | Sounds like? robotic g-funk techno Moods daft punk lost in deep space Thoughts Looking past the cheesy voice and narrative stuff is a set of great electro productions. Maintains a g-funk flavor and techno thing at times. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Space-Dimension-Controller-Welcome-To-Mikrosector-50/release/4343221 Listen! Spotify | 5hhiFP1t4UhkI0JL397ogf | 2013 | Electro | Ambient | Funk | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Space-Dimension-Controller-Welcome-To-Mikrosector-50/release/4343221 | #REF! | ||||
| 376373 | Yusef Lateef | The Blue Yusef Lateef | 3 | Sounds like? Hip bluesy jazz with some eastern experimental mixed in Moods East meets west on this hip bluesy hard bop LP with moments of eastern experimental Thoughts The bluesy rocking tracks are great, thankfully this makes up most of the album. Unfortunately there are these eastern experimental interludes that disrupt the flow creating an uneven listen. The Good 'Like it is' centers around a particularly effective 'sad' sax solo with a piano and intimate percussion. 'six miles next door' is swinging blues jazz. 'Othelia' is a swinging blues thing with a blazing sax solo, harmonica. As much a blues track as it is jazz. The swing borrows from a specific type of rock and roll of the era. The bad 'Moon cup' is a let down after. Eastern in influence with cringey Cantonese singing that just doesn't work. 'Back home' continues the Eastern sound and I'm just not a fan. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Yusef-Lateef-The-Blue-Yusef-Lateef/release/376373 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3z7853uxgw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVhov-Y6ToI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSMVJTrUS4M https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXN-P4qPl5U https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPrOVvqIEBA Spotify | 4dpXhQvZAzAbti2Xpccnat | 1968 | Hard Bop | Free Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Yusef-Lateef-The-Blue-Yusef-Lateef/release/376373 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3z7853uxgw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVhov-Y6ToI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSMVJTrUS4M | |||
| 5971189 | The Crusaders | Gold | 4 | Sounds like? jazzy funk rock Moods Don't usually like best of's but this is a fantastic 2-disc set Thoughts hard to go wrong with the crusaders and this is a great collection. Lots of funk and jazz flavors but they feel very much a rock band especially on disc 2, I'm guessing the band changed directions. I tend to prefer looser styles but it's hard to deny this band. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Crusaders-Gold/release/5971189 Listen! Spotify | 49oDv0OMQgI3bZvY5AshBQ | 2007 | #VALUE! | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/The-Crusaders-Gold/release/5971189 | #VALUE! | |||||
| 4558753 | Roman Flügel | Fatty Folders | 3 | Sounds like? cerebral minimal electro Moods Memorable melodic minimal electro, a refreshing listen Thoughts Nice first-half, on par with any good minimal cerebral IDM (four tet, etc). The improviser is an interesting piece in the practice of tension building song writing. Otherwise a pleasant listen overall that tapers off toward the end. Peggy Gou cites this as a record that inspired her to seriously start producing music. As this was released in 2011, it's interesting to learn about the recent records that are proving to be influential on the younger generation. It doesn't sound that experimental to me but it feels like a very honest reference. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Roman-Fl%C3%BCgel-Fatty-Folders/release/4558753 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwJEYND3Vwo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sB0iD4ZFmF8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3Kr-NYB2MU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHf3wa55fuk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsTTI-NI4iI Spotify | 2GWyEMVLhSvZezuNIlfcJm | 2011 | House | Techno | Deep House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Roman-Fl%C3%BCgel-Fatty-Folders/release/4558753 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwJEYND3Vwo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sB0iD4ZFmF8 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3Kr-NYB2MU | ||
| 1884391 | Aretha Franklin | Young, Gifted And Black | 4 | Sounds like? Aretha in a slightly subdued vibe. Modern, gospel roots but doing r&b. Moods It's as if Aretha took a tiny hit off a joint and recorded a soul album Thoughts Great album part of Arethas awesome period in the early 70's. So many of my favorites are on this, I'm not sure why I've never listened to it end to end. On tracks like 'day dreaming' the harmonies just emerge out of the background like true spiritual gospel. Groovers like 'rock steady' provide a nice fun change of pace. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Aretha-Franklin-Young-Gifted-And-Black/release/1884391 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFidgjq9rIo Spotify | 0k5C3Z7w7uQpyGFQEzl7yB | 0 | Soul | Funk | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Aretha-Franklin-Young-Gifted-And-Black/release/1884391 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFidgjq9rIo | |||||
| 1884391 | Aretha Franklin | Young, Gifted And Black | 4 | Sounds like? Aretha in a slightly subdued vibe. Modern, gospel roots but doing r&b. Moods It's as if Aretha took a tiny hit off a joint and recorded a soul album Thoughts Great album part of Arethas awesome period in the early 70's. So many of my favorites are on this, I'm not sure why I've never listened to it end to end. On tracks like 'day dreaming' the harmonies just emerge out of the background like true spiritual gospel. Groovers like 'rock steady' provide a nice fun change of pace. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Aretha-Franklin-Young-Gifted-And-Black/release/1884391 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFidgjq9rIo Spotify | 0k5C3Z7w7uQpyGFQEzl7yB | 0 | Soul | Funk | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Aretha-Franklin-Young-Gifted-And-Black/release/1884391 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFidgjq9rIo | |||||
| 13311628 | Self Esteem | Compliments Please | 3 | Sounds like? pop with production that incorporates string elements and theatrical idea Moods It's like the glee club geeks got stylized by mtv Thoughts Initially I enjoyed some moments of this but it felt uneven. Great harmonies, acapella-group-like, which is technically impressive. Productions feature mostly sexy beats and lyrics that are genuine and heartfelt. It's pop in many flavors: full on Acapella, dramatic seriousness that soars like a Broadway solo, and danceable club ready tracks. She sings with such confidence that's hard to deny. Definitely a natural talent as melody is offered at every turn with a well-thought out vision at play. This is not an amateur effort and clearly a project of someone who has experience as a songwriter (she was previously a member of the group slow club). I'm gonna give this album credit for sticking with me throughout 2019 and improving on relistens. That aspect alone suggests there is something worthwhile for alt-pop fans to checkout. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Self-Esteem-Compliments-Please/release/13311628 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1w-FzH0008c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF5GSshWU3w Spotify | 1HkSxzhUUhZBEhgLSYenex | 2019 | Dance-pop | Indie Pop | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Self-Esteem-Compliments-Please/release/13311628 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1w-FzH0008c | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF5GSshWU3w | |||
| 13545372 | Kornél Kovács | Stockholm Marathon | 3 | Sounds like? Hip glitchy dreamy electro with Rebecca and Fiona vocals Moods A dance record for dreaming about the dancefloor Thoughts Tight. There is a certain overall pleasantness here (maybe it's the key? Really prevalent). Glitchy. Super fresh. For the kids but not trendy, classy. Moves. Just noticed Rebecca and Fiona are the vocals on a bunch of these tracks which I think is an awesome pairing. Their first record, think synth pop, is a guilty pleasure and it's nice to hear them on solid productions here. Hope they continue working on more fruitful projects. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Korn%C3%A9l-Kov%C3%A1cs-Stockholm-Marathon/release/13545372 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raVn_eF9aJQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4iV62dIVm4o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebzYr8FOWvQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MxB6lSOyc0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcWZA-YWj_w Spotify | 0fhCROsXsxSCYWuTua54af | 2019 | House | Deep House | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Korn%C3%A9l-Kov%C3%A1cs-Stockholm-Marathon/release/13545372 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raVn_eF9aJQ | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4iV62dIVm4o | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebzYr8FOWvQ | |||
| 6688097 | Andrew Hill | Black Fire | 5 | Sounds like? Avant garde hard bop Moods Damn good experimental hard bop, a turning point in jazz modernism Thoughts An enjoyable entry in Hills landmark outings, a turning point in jazz modernism. 5. This sits right on the line between solid hard bop and Avant garde experimentalism, incorporating disparite melodies and rhythmic techniques well still remaining formally in the structure of bop. The allmusic review is perfect. Hills work during the 60s is landmark and this is a very fine example of things starting to turn into modernism. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Andrew-Hill-Black-Fire/release/6688097 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUyfcnOCIOk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_CnHr8G_fE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSwhHSlOoBc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMdKD5GdCbU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRJqncygyXY Spotify | 2XOQztLkohDDWZH8DEECkQ | 1966 | Post Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Andrew-Hill-Black-Fire/release/6688097 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUyfcnOCIOk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_CnHr8G_fE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSwhHSlOoBc | ||||
| 13450294 | Louis Cole | Live Sesh And Xtra Songs | 4 | Sounds like? quick funky synth pop jazz Moods A distinct capture of Louis Cole's live magic Thoughts Louis Cole has some of my favorite musical moments on YouTube. He uses the "broadcast yourself" mentality in the best way. To get a sense check him out on YouTube with his solo project, the synth project knower or Jacob Mann big band. Some of this set is on YouTube accompanied by a large horn section and backup singers. The unfriendly acoustics of the house this was recorded in give it a DIY quality. Usually I would dislike this as the levels are a little fucked up but here it adds charm. He's coming out swinging with a highly energetic set of songs that displays the 'fun' of his songs which can only be captured in a live setting as opposed to the studio where his tracks can feel awkward. I realize none of this describes the sound, just gotta hear it. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Louis-Cole-Live-Sesh-And-Xtra-Songs/release/13450294 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kLHN29qorg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxEIQQkhyeI Spotify | 6NC8HnHlcCexYjukZIkYmJ | 2019 | #VALUE! | Jazz | Funk / Soul | https://www.discogs.com/Louis-Cole-Live-Sesh-And-Xtra-Songs/release/13450294 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kLHN29qorg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxEIQQkhyeI | ||||
| 9224044 | The Pattern Forms | Peel Away The Ivy | 3 | Sounds like? rich electro synth pop Moods A perfect Autumn record: breathy personal lyrics about sentimental subjects with lush instrumentation. An accessible entry into the wonderful @GhostBoxRecords Thoughts a straightforward and enjoyable record that accomplishes multiple things: scratches that synth pop itch, crafted and serious songs that aren't too weighty. It's a record about memory which I believe is the MO of ghost box, a subject of personal fascination and my favorite subject for art to explore. While I like it, something holds it back from greatness. Too soft maybe? It's captures the comforting 'glow' of reflection but I prefer the jagged truth in my art. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Pattern-Forms-Peel-Away-The-Ivy/release/9224044 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=marweWtJ3Pk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpfc45aWR_k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsejwPQpF7I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vafOQ7-x3gM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_8rUEGd0-Q Spotify | 2uP2fSxeSmTdtgm0iQQl3v | 2016 | Synth-pop | Downtempo | Psychedelic | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/The-Pattern-Forms-Peel-Away-The-Ivy/release/9224044 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=marweWtJ3Pk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpfc45aWR_k | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsejwPQpF7I | |
| 229420 | Out Hud | S.T.R.E.E.T. D.A.D. | 3 | Sounds like? spacey instrumental electro dance punk Moods Psychedelic dance music Thoughts Two of the members went onto major things with !!! And LCD Soundsystem. This LP has the jam band sound without the jamming. It's music made by a traditional rock quartet but as if their trying to sound like a spaced-out electro project with dub sounds and house goodness weaved in. There's a 'raw' element here that provides a nice character, feels very human. It's key as instrumentals acts like this can someone's feel a little too clinical or impersonal without the vocal touch. I'd be really interested in seeing Out Hud live as there are so many jumping off points for jam noodling. As a studio thing it works and it's interesting hearing it so many years later as their sound has gone on to influence lots of other bands from the disco biscuits to pretty much the entire DFA roster. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Out-Hud-STREET-DAD/release/229420 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XJ_qx0CkRs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cRe_GduF_g https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wImsKpTBuH8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFHWjR_D-bI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0zLOcRzQT4 Spotify | 2002 | House | Abstract | Indie Rock | Electronic | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/Out-Hud-STREET-DAD/release/229420 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XJ_qx0CkRs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cRe_GduF_g | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wImsKpTBuH8 | ||
| 4746742 | The Ramsey Lewis Trio | The In Crowd | 5 | Sounds like? swinging bop Moods Effortless cool, the quintessential jazz dinner-party album Thoughts I've been searching for this for unpretentious but engaging jazz and the trio here nails it. There's a comfortable loose feel to this, as if they know what they've got is gold. When I refer to jazz dinner albums it means bop but not so technical that it's distracting. This succeeds with it's cool, samba like swing, busy downtown vibe and appropriate moments of somber builds. More Info https://www.discogs.com/The-Ramsey-Lewis-Trio-The-In-Crowd/release/4746742 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsFST-7Hx-Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koSylsFxxpM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_SwYDL5Imc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nm4-JSKi9k0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aX8BS_nINfI Spotify | 1965 | Soul-Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/The-Ramsey-Lewis-Trio-The-In-Crowd/release/4746742 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsFST-7Hx-Y | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koSylsFxxpM | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_SwYDL5Imc | |||||
| 14099064 | Four Tet | Anna Painting | 4 | Sounds like? solid electro techno Moods Four Tet at his most accessible and danceable on this tight EP Thoughts Four Tet has such an admirable discography as he's able to cover a range of styles well. Here he's more accessible than his sometimes experimental self delivering tracks that you can't help but move too. Slight long individual track durations keep you locked in with their hooky movement. Rhythmic, loose feel due to his organic production methods. I always find a lot to enjoy on his releases. Ends with a nice ambient number. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Four-Tet-Anna-Painting/release/14099064 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBxmnfI4ryk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8v2Wra-YoU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCuPRW0P74s Spotify | 0CTMk3XKsfG1LfmKu1KCCA | 2019 | Ambient | Electronic | https://www.discogs.com/Four-Tet-Anna-Painting/release/14099064 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBxmnfI4ryk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8v2Wra-YoU | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCuPRW0P74s | ||||
| 3624058 | Ahmad Jamal | Blue Moon - The New York Session | 4 | Sounds like? post bop Moods A modern, rhythmic post bop delight played by a master Thoughts I feel like Ahmad Jamal is one of the best kept secrets in jazz. Of course jazz fans know him, but outside not a brand name. Here we have a decidedly modern jazz record compositionally played with a heavy rhythmic focus by the awesome Herlin Riley which interplays nicely with Jamal's expert piano playing - melodic and with a natural swing, quick if the band pushes him, easy if not. There's a lot to like here. Worthy of deep listening as well as energetic atmosphere if more removed settings. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Ahmad-Jamal-Blue-Moon-The-New-York-Session/release/3624058 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcUvkO4A5Vo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qkaEf4C6FI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sS2Lvw8HV84 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOAepSLbohs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezYchfPLkno Spotify | 2012 | Post Bop | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Ahmad-Jamal-Blue-Moon-The-New-York-Session/release/3624058 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcUvkO4A5Vo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qkaEf4C6FI | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sS2Lvw8HV84 | |||||
| 11271320 | Vince Staples | Big Fish Theory | 4 | Sounds like? Electro rap Moods Vince Staples best? Rap that incorporates the interesting parts of electro Thoughts I admire hybrids where artists take sounds from a genre's fringes and incorporate them into a popular format. Kanye gets a lot of credit for that with Yeezus but I like this better. Production is what makes Big Fish such a worthwhile record with Staples leveraging a variety of electro producers to create a quilt that is intense, booming and always engaging. His rhymes are direct in delivery, creating a steady presence and interesting juxtaposition against the variety. The result is a great modern Rap record with a youthful but wise energy. It's uneven but one that's bursting with provoking ideas on what makes effective music. I prefer that to the world of over polished pop without soul and have rewarded it with reslistens. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Vince-Staples-Big-Fish-Theory/release/11271320 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l9kzS_B7gg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLpH78k5A9A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeUOvrnOCVY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6iAzyhm0p0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xa4vBlzMaeQ Spotify | 5h3WJG0aZjNOrayFu3MhCS | 2017 | #VALUE! | Hip Hop | https://www.discogs.com/Vince-Staples-Big-Fish-Theory/release/11271320 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l9kzS_B7gg | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLpH78k5A9A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeUOvrnOCVY | ||||
| 10500770 | Laurel Halo | Dust | 3 | Sounds like? electro art pop Moods DIY hip electro lounge music Thoughts Sexy, layered electronic productions with real instrumentations (sax solo here or drum line there) that provide welcome accents. Halo can write, her voice isn't particularly strong but it's fine in these abstract streams of conscious; provides a bedroom intimacy. 'Moontalk' is a good example of when this all comes together well. Uneven but more good than bad, an accessible introduction to her sound. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Laurel-Halo-Dust/release/10500770 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrjeMN_U1hw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y9AQfqnUvs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcZ-JK8EZlw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvkdCnK-aCE Spotify | 2QZjNDsXzq2VKNF6xca00F | 2017 | Experimental | Electronic | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Laurel-Halo-Dust/release/10500770 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrjeMN_U1hw | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y9AQfqnUvs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcZ-JK8EZlw | |||
| 13642739 | Bennie Maupin | The Jewel In The Lotus | 3 | Sounds like? Avant garde spiritual jazz Moods A spiritual album defined by interplay and pause Thoughts chilled out beautiful soulful jazz, hip, I guess you could call this spiritual jazz. I like the use of percussion and keys, it's almost just like traces of just random lines that dissolve into nothing. An avant garde tactic but here it's employed well. Flute is really difficult for me to get right but he nails it, stretching notes into texture. Some of it gets too avant and free for my tastes like on Mappo and excursion, creates a stirring presence that in my opinion detracts from the spiritual that's on the title track and ensenada ( the latter being the real standout on the album). More Info https://www.discogs.com/Bennie-Maupin-The-Jewel-In-The-Lotus/release/13642739 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8U69QwzAhz4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG1LcUuxp5A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgwLP5jcjjs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pW_t-kgs9pw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A78fDGSj5w Spotify | 1Na5QsavsjOUqtj4f4Bxn1 | 2019 | Contemporary Jazz | Jazz | https://www.discogs.com/Bennie-Maupin-The-Jewel-In-The-Lotus/release/13642739 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8U69QwzAhz4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG1LcUuxp5A | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgwLP5jcjjs | ||||
| 8580322 | Catfish And The Bottlemen | The Ride | 3 | Sounds like? stomping heart on your sleeve pop rock Moods captures the excitement and energy of a 20 something's life in the moment Thoughts it's a solid record overall. Bit 'one note' as far as songwriting goes, general pop rock fare. Songs are high energy, rousing and stomping. Lyrically he sings in a highly personal manner with details of relatable memories about failed relationships, getting drunk, and general adulthood confusion. Sound like a lot of albums? I'd say where this delivers is on the genuineness of those moments and that it sounds exactly like a good night out on the Lower East Side of Manhattan feels: an exciting energy powered only by the moment. It's fun if you live that or, if you're like me, a bit removed relive those memories for a bit. I imagine this band would be fantastic live. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Catfish-And-The-Bottlemen-The-Ride/release/8580322 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mLD8FL28Nk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjo34xdVyuY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YRi8PCFqfU Spotify | 07IHAhsG4FnnfHQSb3bbAZ | 2016 | Indie Rock | Rock | Pop | https://www.discogs.com/Catfish-And-The-Bottlemen-The-Ride/release/8580322 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mLD8FL28Nk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjo34xdVyuY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YRi8PCFqfU | |||
| 724788 | Mulatu Astatke | Éthiopiques 4: Ethio Jazz & Musique Instrumentale 1969-1974 | 5 | Sounds like? World music that combines jazz, African rhythms, and spiritual elements into something distinct. Moods Beautiful, original, sultry, spiritual - this is timeless music that transcends classification. Thoughts I struggle to describe this as I think boxing it into descriptors would do it a disservice. Instead I've jotted some feelings in the mood section but encourage listening during evening hours, adds to a warm atmosphere with positive spirits. More lively then not. Great playing throughout. The solos feel a little too defined as opposed to the looseness I prefer in jazz but each has crafted them so well that they never suffer. Classic and essential listening that welcomes revisits. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Mulatu-Astatq%C3%A9-%C3%89thiopiques-4-Ethio-Jazz-Musique-Instrumentale-1969-1974/release/724788 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtwLr7FtBlE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjZuX3XBGAo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIjZngfgv10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgilX6AUClY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGeqiB73H90 Spotify | 1998 | Rhythm & Blues | Jazz-Funk | African | Jazz | Funk / Soul | Folk | https://www.discogs.com/Mulatu-Astatq%C3%A9-%C3%89thiopiques-4-Ethio-Jazz-Musique-Instrumentale-1969-1974/release/724788 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtwLr7FtBlE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjZuX3XBGAo | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIjZngfgv10 | |
| 6988842 | Link Wray | Link Wray | 4 | Sounds like? The music is an Americana blend of blues, country, gospel, and folk rock elements. This music is characterized by the purposeful use of simplified sounds to reflect the then-current vogue of blues and other roots music being used in many roots rock bands. Wray's guitar-work, composing, and vocals reflected modern rock influences. Moods A beautiful piece of Americana that's defined by it's rough passion and original roots rock sound Thoughts bluesy folk rock with a country twang. For years I only knew the guy for his earlier instrumental work but I'm happy I checked this later entry out. I took the description in the 'sounds like' description from Wikipedia as it's accurate but bizarre to read, almost clinical in its description. The draw here is the passionate and earthy grittiness found in timeless music of the era. The combination of those sounds produces something distinct and broadly appealing, it's original music that only the American landscape is capable of producing. More Info https://www.discogs.com/Link-Wray-Link-Wray/release/6988842 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXrV9mBM7Pk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es-Zws_ggoY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozwlKJO7iuw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZmSZGJggE4 Spotify | 6NYyr8iHYfYxCRrvFu0Xfi | 1971 | Country Blues | Country Rock | Acoustic | Rock | Blues | https://www.discogs.com/Link-Wray-Link-Wray/release/6988842 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXrV9mBM7Pk | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es-Zws_ggoY | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozwlKJO7iuw | |
| 720464 | El Ten Eleven | El Ten Eleven | 3 | Sounds like? instrumental melodic post rock - duo or trio playing simple music of tight compositions, sentimental and melodic Moods It's like an extended instrumental emo jam, an accessible entry into post-rock Thoughts enjoyable if you like that sound, reminds me of something else I can't quite put my finger on (know that's not helpful, it's the sentimental side of the sound). Accessible as a bridge record for those starting into post rock given the quick melodies and agile drumming. Guitar lines are almost robot like in their sequences, simple scales that give a familiar and immediate sound. Is it the kind of record you need to hear before you die? Not at all but it's got some memorable tracks that would work well on mood playlists. More Info https://www.discogs.com/El-Ten-Eleven-El-Ten-Eleven/release/720464 Listen! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_TV076UGUs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBTUAHGpQqE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFCRMonf7lI Spotify | 6bv070I2PgzwGLgYGBxaJW | 2004 | Post Rock | Experimental | Rock | https://www.discogs.com/El-Ten-Eleven-El-Ten-Eleven/release/720464 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_TV076UGUs | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBTUAHGpQqE | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFCRMonf7lI |
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