Fave albums for month of May
James Murphy says this will be the final LCD Soundsystem album. Too bad.
Five May full-lengths are faves for me, and here are some quick impressions:
LCD Soundsystem—This is Happening…This one has an excellent shot at making my year-end list. Every track has a different vibe and they all work. James Murphy is saying this will be their last album, as they want to go out on top. Hope it ain’t so but if it is, they will have exited in style. In addition to their “Drunk Girls” single, recommended tracks are “I Can Change”, “All I Want”, and “Pow Pow”.
Stone Temple Pilots—Stone Temple Pilots…I’ll admit I wasn’t their biggest fan back in the 90’s. This is my fave album of theirs, as the energy level is relentless and the songs consistent. Recommended tracks besides their hit “Between the Lines” single are “Bagman”, “Cinamon”, and “Huckleberry Crumble”.
The New Pornographers—Together…After a disappointing effort last time around, these Toronto peeps have renewed the energy and freshness we heard on 2005’s “Twin Cinema”. I recommend “Crash Years”, “Your Hands (Together)”, and “Sweet Talk Sweet Talk”.
The Dead Weather—Sea Of Cowards…I won’t say I personally love their music but they’re just so damn good. Jack White couldn’t have done better than recruiting the sultry Allison Mosshart to share lead vocals. One track really stands out for me, and that’s “The Difference Between Us”, which is just a little more melodic with those keyboard hooks.
Drawn From Bees—Fear Not the Footsteps of the Departed…Released in Australia only for now, this one’s a beauty. Their harmonies are some of the best out there, and they’re getting strong support from radio down under. Recommend tracks are “Stand Against the Storm”, “East Wood Fox”, “Run Away”, and “Caves”.
I’m really liking the June Futureheads and Constellations albums. Check them out! Look for a post of my Rave’s Faves individual tracks for spring, coming soon.