When the music industry turns off its lights for three weeks, what is a new music column to do? Er, struggle, Which I have and continue to do so. It is bizarre that there has been nothing more than a handful of singles released since December 19th. And so as I sit at my typewriter (or some variation thereof) and try and find new music not just to listen but to review for fun and profit, I am left trying to find stuff I've missed. And there is plenty of it.
Lafayette, Louisiana, only exists in one of two places.
1. Nielsen market ratings
2. Lucinda Williams songs.
So here is a third. Givers, one of the most exciting indie bands of 2011, who I completely missed,. Their debut album In Light is a very light hearted take on indie rock, with Cajun influence and a sort of Vampire Weekend African multi beats feel and two lead singers, the chick having a great voice. Grade: A-
Hurry Up, We're Dreaming – M83 – This one I did catch and I did like, but I underestimated. A "double" album with the heft of a major statement but a lightness of touch many big time rock bands would be well advised to study (even as the leader was influenced by them). Considered a shoegaze band, I don't hear it myself. This is an electronic rock album about childhood and dreaming. One of the best albums of last year. Grade: A
Electronic Dream – araabMUSIK – Another album I missed entirely, until my friend Alec mentioned it was one of his faves. Araabmusik's original beats are amazing soundscapes and work down and upwards. Grade: A-
Graham Alexander – Graham Alexander – Singer-songwriter budding classic type pop star whose Beatle affiances are not solely based upon his recent role in "Rain" on Broadway. McCartneyish vocals as well. Needs to be a bit better. Grade: B