Yeasayer – Odd Blood
Full of ominous keyboard and organic beats, the sophomore release of Yeasayer has proven to be even more infectious than All Hour Cymbals. Layered beats, huge choruses, and stunning musicianship has made this Brooklyn based band one of the biggest hitters in the indie music scene. Odd Blood is the perfect progression from the earthy and tribal music of Yeasayer to a more mainstream and catchy sound. Establishing themselves as one of the more creative and musically talented bands to emerge in recent years, Yeasayer’s Odd Blood is impressive not the bands best work to date, but a shining February release.
Xiu Xiu – Dear God, I Hate Myself
Despite losing many of their key components, Xiu Xiu is still able to ride on the wings of brilliant musicians. Jamie Stewarts self-deprecating and evil-genius style of songwriting backed by the drums and production of Deerhoof drummer Greg Saunier makes Dear God, I Hate Myself an excellent release. Just when you thought you were sick of manic content and creepy instruments, this February release shows up to prove you utterly wrong.
Tindersticks – Falling Down a Mountain
The modest and grounded crooning of Stuart Staples is perfectly captured in the new Tindersticks album. Each multi-instrumentalist in the band shows their range and ability by creating epic arrangements across a wide scope of genres. Slightly more organic and twangy than many Tindersticks releases, Falling Down a Mountain will not appeal to everyone, but many will appreciate the direction they decided to take. The album is uncompromising, suggesting that the band has discovered what they believe to be their essence.
Robert Pollard – We All Got Out of the Army
The former frontman of Guided By Voices has once again proven his influence on the world of indie music. His previous release Elephant Jokes was widely accepted by critics and matched some of his best work period; with or without Guided by Voices. We All Got Out of the Army is raw, noisy, and about as classic indie rock as it gets. I guess there’s not much that you can say about Robert Pollard other than that he kicks the shit out of most indie rockers’ music.
Quasi – American Gong
If you haven’t heard former Quasi albums, American Gong is a great chance to experience the phenomenon. Comprised mainly of Sleater-Kinney drummer Janet Weiss and guitarist Sam Coomes of Heatmiser, Quasi is an incredibly dynamic indie rock outfit. The noticeable and meaty drumming of Weiss is the perfect backdrop to Coomes aggressive and noisy guitar playing. With the addition of Joanna Bolme, the band offers heavy instrumentals backed by some surprisingly soothing harmonies. Somehow after 12 years, Quasi is able to keep it fresh, which is impressive.
