There has been a backlog on my desk, Avid Reader, and, as I’ve attended a few concerts this summer, I haven’t had time to review as many albums as I should have. No matter, today we’re taking a look at three albums that have been staring at me for some time, and I want to tell you about them. Ready or not here we go.
Beach House – Bloom – there are times I will walk through a box store and notice CD’s on sale, and if I’ve read about them, I might be apt to pick them up. For example, I had no real frame of reference for this album and was surprised at the quiet arrangements, use of space and vocals that pulled me in. I suggest this album for anyone looking to zone out for a bit and forget about your cares for a little while.
Guided By Voices – Class Clown Spots a UFO – I started the year by reviewing GBV, and they’re back with another album of material that picks up where the other album left off. Short songs, tight jams and some strange lyrics that might make you laugh or scratch your head, maybe both.
Scott Lucas – Blood Half Moon – you might recognize that name as the leading half of alt-rock duo Local H, and this is his second album fronting a band that is the polar opposite of his alt-rock roots. To be honest, these albums are a vacation from his usual material and part of me wishes he made these records much earlier in his career. Adding a full band with strings and digging deep in Americana/blues, then mixing in The Decemberists, we see Lucas in rare form.
There you have it, three albums that you’d do well to find and give some listens. From spaced out indie rock, to short art pop and even roots music, I hope you enjoyed the three-fer.
