From forward-looking electronic and experimental to new approaches in the ever-evolving R&B scene, from hip-hop and punk to rock and pop, 2018 bestowed an embarrassment of musical riches upon us.
This is no scene or collective. These artists have reached their limit in all directions, back into traditions and forward into uncertain futures. 2018 presented challenges for all of us, and our artists presented challenges right back.
With her new record, Aviary, Julia Holter expands her scope to include elements of free improvisation, neo-classical leanings, and folk-induced hallucinations, thereby producing a substantial work of art.
As an artist who boldly blurs the line between avant-garde aesthetics and pop accessibility, Julia Holter's new album comes at us as a statement, and one that speaks to the power of her artistic journey.
"I write with a character in mind. I just let myself write whatever comes out without it necessarily being directly a translation of what I'm aware that I'm feeling, you know?"
Matt Mondanile's (Real Estate) latest solo excursion improves upon his refined fuzz-pop approach, though he struggles to find an emotional core inside his casual synth arrangements.
By making a record to remind us about Woody Guthrie's tenure on Los Angeles radio, Holter is also reminding us of California’s unique legacy of promises unfulfilled.
To live up to the legacy of a cult classic is a daunting task. While The Soul of All Natural Things isn't quite up to the challenge, it does add a number of memorable songs to her catalog.
The blossoming, dramatic third single from Julia Holter's Loud City Song expands her former largely synthetic style in an organic, classic-sounding direction.
