Friday, February 10 2012
Underworld: A Collection / 1992-2012: The Anthology
Twenty years (or so) in, the seminal techno act releases two very different compilations. Both succeed on their own terms.
The Twilight Sad: No One Can Ever Know
Scottish brooders turn the shoegaze down, invest in some new technology, and make a record that pushes the limits of their band's well-honed sound.
A Place to Bury Strangers: Onwards to the Wall EP
For those looking for something as strong as industrial-strength floor wax to serve as a dessert topping, this EP will handily do the trick.
Bill Hicks: The Essential Collection
Finally, a worthy compilation – and appreciation – of the greatest stand-up comedian of the '90s.
Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band: Ultimate Hits
A compilation that shows that Bob Seger was at times a good artist, but also shows why he was never really a great one.
Five Finger Death Punch: American Capitalist
The most popular metal band in America makes the most unnecessary blunders to spoil what is otherwise a pretty good third album.
Thursday, February 9 2012
Sharon Van Etten: Tramp
The way we heal is a huge part of the sweet exhaustion of Tramp, but it is a double-edged affair.
Dierks Bentley: Home
It leaves you with the impression that Bentley has made something special here -- not just his most consistent album and 2012’s first great country album, but even more.
Lawrence Ball: Method Music
Math whiz Lawrence Ball adds another baby step of progress for Pete Townshend's "Lifehouse" project.
The Devil’s Blood: The Thousandfold Epicentre
While heckles are raised when terms like "vintage" and "retro" are tossed about, the Devil's Blood has undeniably evoked the electrifying rush of '60s and '70s occult rock. What other sprits they have invoked along the way, well, that's a whole other story.
Orchestra of Spheres: Nonagonic Now
Orchestra of Spheres should be recognized for its willingness to take chances and experiment with instrument-construction and sound in general. Unfortunately, the band’s ratio of hits to misses on this album is right about 50/50.
Wednesday, February 8 2012
Mark Lanegan Band: Blues Funeral
After eight years spent growling for others, Mark Lanegan returns with his most musically diverse album to date.
Die Antwoord: Ten$ion
Die Antwoord may be strange and engrossing, but are they making good music? Yes and no.
Mark Sultan: Whatever/Whenever
Sultan blends together his doo-wop, garage, and punk influences, presenting himself as a peerless artist.
Group Inerane: Guitars from Agadez Vol. 3
Tuareg rock youngsters are fatally hampered by bad production.
The Dirt Drifters: This Is My Blood
The feeling that this is your neighborhood bar band gives the music a punch of energy that’s memorable. At the same time, the stories in the music, and the ways they’re told, are less distinct, even generic.
Tuesday, February 7 2012
Paul McCartney: Kisses on the Bottom
As musical interpretations of romance go, Kisses on the Bottom may only get you about halfway there, flowers in hand wondering whether a second date is on the cards, unsure if that’s even what you want at all.
