Well damn, it feels like months since I last posted about music but really it's only been weeks.
And what an odd few weeks it's been. You know the feeling you have when things aren't exactly how you want them to be.... nothing is bad, but it's just not quite right? Well I have been in that holding pattern for about a month now, waiting for the haze to lift. Any day now, I hope.
So my musical adventure begins:
Fight! Fight! Fight! by The History of Panic. Super catchy debut release from Gerald Roesser, better know as The History of Panic. It's pretty easy to hear the influence, I picture this guy growing up pretending to be a DJ in his bedroom and immersing himself in the eletcro/techno revolution of the 90's. This release blurs the edges of genre and after listening and reading up on him, I am impressed with the time and dedication put into this release; truly a labour of love. It's worth listening to he has taken the mellow approach of embarrassing his influence and has produced a record that is subtle and evokes a mood that is comforting and sublime. http://thehistoryofpanic.com/
Baby to Beast by The Appleseed Collective. This group is a string band with a strong swing Dixie influence, they actually remind me of the Squirrel Nut Zippers at times. I usually find pleasure in tradition, yet listening to this release left me wanting more. I felt like there wasn't enough here to keep my attention. They have a plaintive sound that can border on the depressing at times and they get dangerously close to over using it. This is a solid first effort by this group, but I can tell you, that I didn't have to research them to know it was their first release it was evident. There certainly is talent in this group I just hope it's nurtured and that they evolve beyond the "hey how quaint". http://www.theappleseedcollective.com/fr_home.cfm
One Lovely Day by Citizen Cope. I claim ignorance on this group (actually just one dude). I always saw these releases and thought it would be a terrible rap/rock hybrid that would make my tummy ache so clearly I stayed away. Well I gave it a try and was surprised. It's sort of an urban/folk sound. The music is light and breezy and I can picture myself sitting in a field watching him at a festival and dazzle the masses. There is a chill to this album. The groove is maintained throughout and I found myself relaxing as it progressed. Plus, and this should be the clincher, he does a mellow cover of Glen Campbell's Southern Nights. Well played sir. http://citizencope.com/
Broken Brights by Angus Stone. So I am still a bit undecided on this album. It has the sun-soaked sound of California 60's and for the most part it's quite good, but the flow is odd, and I still am not over the track Blue Door. I mean seriously pan pipes???? After those hiccups the rest sounds fine, I did enjoy the music and I especially liked the track It Was Blue. I could listen to that one over and over no problem. So I guess I am saying, if you dig the retro sound, I am sure you'll enjoy this CD. http://angusstone.com/
Shout out out to three local bands:
1. Murdoch & Sparrow's Dominion Day. Well of course I dig it, it was recorded in the Arden Theatre (where I work) plus they have to be two of the nicest fellows. Tracks stand out on their own, but as a whole unveil a story that draws in the listener. Please check them out, you won't be disappointed. Seriously, would I lie to you? http://www.murdochandsparrow.com/about/
2. Shout Out Out Out's Spanish Moss and Total Loss. I don't really know these guys personally, but have helped sell their merch from time to time and obviously seen them perform. This new CD is a departure from the high tempo party sound, but honestly I am okay with that. I have total faith in the creativity of this band. I think it's awesome that they are ever evolving. I always like what I hear and the fact that critics have said this is their least "fun" album, well screw that. Sure the tempo is different, but they would have been equally criticised for staying the same. I would love more of a party sound too, because they do it well, but what they have released sounds great. Go buy it. http://shoutoutoutoutout.com/
3. Hot Panda's Go Outside. I used to work with Chris at Megatunes, and while we only crossed paths for a few months, I did like him and was impressed when he formed this group with his girlfriend. Their sound is not my favourite go to, when I am picking music, but I can see the merit. Quite honestly, I am thrilled for their success, and this album is solid from start to finish. Check them out. http://www.hotpanda.ca/
On a local note, go buy your music in a real record store. There are great local stores in Edmonton that we should all support. Permanent Records, Blackbyrd Records and Listen Records come to mind instantly.
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