I am not sure how I can love A.C. Newman solo but dislike the New Pornographers but I do. So upon seeing there was to be new stuff, I was pretty stoked, If you have ever heard his rendition of Ah Ha's "Take On Me", you know what I mean. There is a whole different vibe to his solo work. I am very happy I discovered it in reverse. I discovered Newmans solo work before the New Pornographers. A win for me.
Shut Down the Streets, is a long awaited LP from the man with the name similar to the hero of Mad Magazine. A single has been released via Newman's Facebook page and its a winner.
Although, there is a bit too much space twitter, the vocals are perfection and the chorus contagious and strong. There is a quirky tone to Newman's voice. A bit congested and throaty at times and rather than sounding messy it comes across as vulnerable. I am in no way saying he is weak, its sincerity that lacks a great deal in todays music.
The song "I'm Not Talking" is a perfect choice for a first tune. Interesting choices of accompaniment create an Indie sound without the hipster(if this is possible)
Shut Down The Streets, Newman’s third solo LP, and will be out October 9th via Matador Records and a nice little tour follows. Listen to the song here
Go see Newman here:
10/22 – New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom
10/23 – Allston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall
10/24 – Hoboken, NJ @ Maxwell’s