After a break with this blog, I'm back and I have to catch up on what I missed talking about. I thought that I would start with a recap of what music has been notable lately.
1) Sleigh Bells: Reign of Terror
This album shows that you could make noise pop with wonderful hooks. Even more so than their debut "Treats", the band shows that they have a knack for making outstanding hooks and could combine sounds that make music fresh again.
2) Memoryhouse: The Slideshow Effect
January saw the release of this amazingly chill album. They have only released a five song EP before this, and this release has been highly anticipated. It's pretty great how laid back they are. One of the most relaxing and satisfying albums I have heard in a while.
3) The Shins: Port of Morrow
James Mercer is still at the top of the indie-rock game. He proves this again with this outstanding comeback that is filled to the brim with amazing moments that reminded me of why they are one of my favorite bands. It has been 5 years since their last release, but it all pays off now.
4) Beach House: Bloom
This album will be released on 5/15/12, and if you are a fan of the band, you know that they have always delivered laid back jams on their albums. This fourth album is sounding fantastic from what I have heard so far. I can't wait!
5) The Spinto Band: Shy Pursuit
This album comes out on 5/1/12 and actually has a lot riding on it in my opinion. This could be the one that gets this band into the public eye. I don't know how they aren't already. Perhaps the gap of four years between albums slowed things down, but from what I have heard from this album, they are on top of things again. They have always had a unique sound and I am excited to see what they have been working on for all this time!
6) Keane: Strangeland
Coming out in May, this is the first proper Keane album since 2008. They have a lot to live up to, but I am pretty certain that they will deliver again. I am always impressed by their studio albums. We will have to see if the moving piano driven pieces are still intact.
Justice is served!
